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Booking a well-deserved break online is easy and convenient but, with holiday fraud on the increase, we asked our travel team for their tips on avoiding holiday scams...
- The tell-tale signs that a holiday company isn't what it seems.
- Why you should do your research before booking online.
- What to do if you’re the victim of holiday booking fraud.
"Holidays are an opportunity for fraudsters to trick you out of your hard-earned money. There's a startling emotional impact of falling victim to holiday fraud, bringing the feeling of embarrassment and disappointment to those we love," says Director of Action Fraud (@actionfrauduk) Pauline Smith.
The growth of the digital economy, allowing people to book everything online, has made it easy for fraudsters to exploit everything from airline tickets to online accommodation.
Where are you most at risk of holiday booking fraud?
Holiday booking fraud is when someone believes they've paid for a genuine holiday or aspect of their holiday, but later finds out it doesn’t exist. Unfortunately, this type of fraud is becoming common in the UK, especially as people purchase more elements of their trip online.
When you're online, communication is conducted over email and/or instant messaging, allowing fraudsters to hide their real identity. However, the internet can also help you avoid being caught out, as you can thoroughly research any company you book with.
Fraudsters often target people going on long, more expensive flights to see family. Several scams related to sporting events have also been reported by the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA).
Do your research to avoid being scammed.
What are the tell-tale signs you're being targeted by a fraudster?
Scammers are becoming increasingly adept at creating sites that mislead people into thinking they're getting the real deal. However, alarm bells should ring if:
- You’re contacted by a company you’ve not heard of offering you a good deal.
- You’re asked to pay by bank transfer or cash, rather than a credit or debit card.
- There are no independent reviews of the destination or service being provided.
What can you do to help avoid holiday booking fraud?
It's "important to do your research when making travel arrangements," according to Action Fraud's director, Pauline Smith.
Here are five ways you can check them out:
- Look out for customer reviews and research their registered address – does it actually exist?
- Google the company name and search for articles online about the company being involved in this type of fraud.
- Check the web address hasn't been altered slightly from that of a reputable company’s.
- Book flights and hotels directly, but first look them up on Google Maps and call to check there’s someone at the other end of the phone.
- If you’re booking directly with a property owner or letting agent, ask them questions about the booking, such as the type of accommodation, what the location's like, where the nearest restaurants and shops are, and verify them on Google Maps.
Whoever you book with, where applicable, check they're a member of a reputable organisation like the International Air Transport Association (IATA) or ABTA, and hold an ATOL (Air Travel Organisers' License).
Watch out, though – if the company's prepared to defraud consumers, they won't hesitate to fraudulently use a trade association name and logo on their website, or provide a false registration number, which makes the website look more official.
Pay using your credit or debit card, as your provider may offer you protection against fraud – it’s worth checking they do. If the amount is over £100, Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act should give some protection.
It’s often safest to book with a UK-registered company. Different countries have different regulations but, generally, UK requirements to protect customers are high.
What can I do if I'm the victim of holiday booking fraud?
If you believe you’ve been a victim of fraud, or been contacted by a fraudster, visit Action Fraud.
Report the fraud to warn other holidaymakers – you could even write reviews online to prevent more people becoming victims.
While on holiday, it’s important to remain alert – it’s easy to inadvertently become involved in a fraudulent scam if you’re not careful.
- Don’t give your insurance details to anyone else if you suspect they're involved in holiday sickness fraud.
- Always call your emergency assistance provider if you need medical treatment.
- If you're genuinely ill and have to cancel your trip, you may be able to claim on your travel insurance.
Holiday booking fraud can have a real financial and emotional impact, especially if you thought you’d booked the holiday of your dreams. But by researching every company you book with, and making sure they’re legitimate, you can have a holiday to remember – for all the right reasons.
Top travel tips to avoid holiday scams
Remember, when it comes to holiday fraud, you can never be too careful. So, before you book, here are our top travel tips:
- Always check the web address is genuine and hasn't been altered by slight changes like switching from .co.uk to .org and look out for any spelling mistakes.
- Read more than one review, and do a thorough online search to check the company's credentials. If they're defrauding people, there's a good chance customers will post details of their experience and warnings about the company.
- Check whether the company's a member of a recognised trade body like ABTA and displays their logo. You can verify membership of ABTA online.
- Never pay directly into an owner's bank account. Paying by direct bank transfer is like paying by cash – the money can't be traced and is not refundable. Where possible, pay by a credit or debit card that offers some protection.
- You should check all receipts, invoices and terms & conditions, and be wary of companies that don't provide any.
- Don't post on social media that you're going to be on holiday – this let’s fraudsters know you’re not home.
- Buy currency before you travel – it can make planning your spending much easier and help you avoid high exchange rates or counterfeit money.
- Remember the golden rule, if something sounds too good to be true, it often is.