FraudSMART warns consumers to remain vigilant against a seasonal rise in travel scams

As summer holiday season gets into full swing and the hunt for the best deals ramps up, FraudSMART is issuing a timely reminder: be vigilant against a seasonal rise in travel scams.

FraudSMART, the fraud awareness initiative developed by Banking & Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI), warns that these scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with fraudsters capitalising on the demand for last-minute getaways, particularly touting ‘recent cancellations’ or ‘limited time offers’ at heavily discounted rates. Holidaymakers are being lured in with these tempting offers and discounts, often through fake websites, online ads and social media links.

To help consumers navigate online travel bookings safely, FraudSMART is urging every holidaymaker to utilise a free tool available on the FraudSMART website: Scamchecker.ie. This essential resource allows you to quickly verify the legitimacy of any website or link before making a booking, acting as your crucial first line of defence against online fraud.

FRAUDSMART’S TOP TIPS FOR A SECURE SUMMER:

• Book Smart: Always use trusted and well-known booking websites or travel agents.
• Verify before you buy! Before you commit, check the link on Scamchecker.ie. This free tool is your essential safeguard against fake websites and fraudulent offers.
• Be Wary of Unsolicited Offers: Exercise caution with unsolicited emails or social media ads offering cheap holiday deals. Always verify special offers by visiting the official website of the travel company, rather than clicking on embedded links in an email or advert.
• Avoid Bank Transfers: Avoid making payments through bank transfers, as these are difficult to trace and recover.
• Use secure Wi-Fi: Do not use unsecured or public Wi-Fi networks when making payments; switch to 3G/4G on your phone if necessary.
• Keep Records: Print or save a copy of your order and purchase details.
• Update Security: Ensure your computer’s security is up to date with reliable antivirus and browser software.
• Protect Your Card: Keep your card in your sights and protect your PIN – never share or write down your PIN details.

Niamh Davenport, Head of Financial Crime at BPFI and lead for the FraudSMART campaign, said: “As people across Ireland plan last-minute getaways, fraudsters are working just as hard to take advantage of the holiday rush. These scams can be incredibly convincing and come from multiple sources including fake and copycat websites, convincing online adverts and social media posts. However, once payment is made — often by bank transfer — the so-called agent or website disappears, leaving victims without a booking and out of pocket. Some victims may even receive a fake booking confirmation, only to discover the scam after they have travelled to the destination and find the property doesn’t exist when they arrive.”

Ms Davenport added: “However, there are a number of red flags to look out for, such as being asked to pay by bank transfer or being pressurised to act quickly. Our Scamchecker.ie tool gives consumers a simple, effective, and free way to double-check the legitimacy of a website or link before making a booking. If you pause before you pay, and use Scamchecker.ie, it can be the difference between the holiday of a lifetime or a holiday disaster and significant financial loss.”

FraudSMART is encouraging holidaymakers to make Scamchecker.ie the first stop before booking any holiday deal online. If you suspect you have been scammed, contact your bank immediately and report the incident to the Gardaí.

For further advice and to sign up for email alerts on current risks and trends, visit www.FraudSMART.ie.

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