The travel restrictions put in place to protect against the spread of COVID-19 have left many people desperate for a holiday.
But make sure that the holiday you book will be the rest you need.
Fraudsters never miss an opportunity, and they’ve seen this one coming
We’ve identified 3 types of holiday fraud to be aware of:
Is the holiday/flight/accomodation real?
Some scams involve selling something that just doesn’t exist. A few nice photos, and a bit of manufactured blurb, that’s all. Victims have arrived at the airport, or supposed destination, to find that their flight or villa simply isn’t there. An alternative is that the fraudsters falsely list a real place, and take payment for it, but victims arrive to find that their accomodation is double-booked. Someone else booked through the genuine agent; their own booking was fake.
Motorhome/caravan fraud
With the difficulty in travelling abroad, the numbers of those planning a staycation was 500% higher than usual in 2020, according to Statista.com. And, of course, the fraudsters followed the money, turning their hands to selling non-existent motorhomes and caravans. The excuse that you couldn’t view your prospective purchase prior to paying due to COVID restrictions was very convenient.
Refund fraud
Additionally, the closure of holiday firms Thomas Cook and Flybe led to many phishing and other scams related to refunds.
How to avoid holiday scams
- If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
- If you see something advertised on social media, or receive messages about it, go back to the source to book – don’t follow links from the advert.
- Book using a credit card, if possible. You’re more likely to be able to get your money back if things do go wrong.
- And don’t be rushed – the sense of urgency can make you less careful than usual.