Stay safe when you book holidays online

We’re all desperate to get back on holiday after the seemingly endless Covid lockdowns – but sadly there are many devious and clever scammers out there who are keen to separate us from our hard-earned money.

So if you’re booking a getaway online over the festive break, it’s well worth checking these tips from Uswitch to avoid being ripped off.

Does the website look legitimate?

If a website doesn’t look right or images are low resolution, it could be a sign that fraudsters are looking to scam you out of money.

To avoid getting stung, make sure you research the company that you are booking through and also look out for any trusted reviews or other feedback from people who have used the site for a booking.

Too good to be true?

It’s all too easy to get swept up in the idea of a really good holiday deal. But is it just too perfect to be true?

You can check its validity by looking for any strict terms and conditions that would make the offer void, or hidden extras that can lead to extra costs later. These are a sign that the offer you are looking at might not be real.

To avoid getting caught up in these deals, look for clues to prove whether the site you are using is legitimate or has secure payment methods.

Always read the rules

Yes, those terms and conditions are often long and boring, and it can be tempting to hit the accept button without actually knowing what you are agreeing to. Before committing to anything, make sure to read the fine print so you are aware of any extra costs you might expect to pay should anything go wrong.

It may seem tedious but it could save you a headache (and money) further down the road.

Be careful how you pay

This may seem obvious, but the way you pay online can be a great way to stay safe and avoid fraud.

If the company you’re booking with asks you to pay by bank transfer or by cheque, be very suspicious. The chances are they are looking to take more than they are really asking you for.

Play your cards right

Whether you’re booking anything from a flight to a rented villa or a winter sports break, always pay online via credit or debit card. That way you will always be protected by your bank or card provider. You should also look for a padlock next to the URL that shows the website is encrypted.

Get in touch

If you’re worried about whether or not a booking that you have made or want to make is valid, one of the best ways to put your mind at ease is simply to get in touch directly with the owner or agent.

If your email bounces, or you can’t get through to someone on the phone, the website could be a scam. To avoid this, call the customer services team on the website to check how many reservations the property or location has had in the past.