Rip-off holiday warning
HOLIDAYMAKERS in Halton have been urged to avoid being ripped off this summer by a national scam busting agency.
Action Fraud said sunseekers looking for lastminute package deals and cheap flights can be exposed to dodgy offers.
A spokesman said that whether paying up front for a family break or simply booking plane tickets, payments are sometimes transferred only for the customer to discover that the holiday or airline ticket does not exist and was sold by a bogus travel company.
He said fraudsters will often lure potential customers with low prices and ‘one time only’ offers that are too good to pass, requesting payment by direct bank transfer.
Action Fraud said residents can protect themselves by following simple tips.
The spokesman said: “Avoid responding to unsolicited calls, texts or emails offering holidays at incredibly low prices.
“Whenever possible, pay for your holiday by credit card as it offers increased protection.
“Always remember to look for the ‘https’ and locked padlock icon in the address bar before entering your payment details.
“Never feel pressured to make a booking for fear that you will miss out on a ‘low price’ opportunity.
“If you have never used the company before, take your time to do some online research to ensure they are reputable.
“Should you make a flight or hotel booking through a travel company, feel free to separately check with the hotel or airline that your booking does indeed exist.
“If you have been affected by this, or any other scam, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040, or visiting www. actionfraud. police. uk”