SCAM ALERT
Victims of holiday scams are losing £765 on average, according to data from Lloyds Bank and data shows people aged 35 to 44 make up more than a quarter (27%) of victims. Flight tickets are the most common fake item sold relating to holidays.
THINK FIRST: Fraudsters Beware scam use social media holiday sites as well as booking websites to try to trick people, the bank added.
Lloyds suggested that rising flight costs in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic have led people to turn to social media and lesser-known websites to look for cheaper deals.
Scammers will create fake ads for cheap flight deals or lure unsuspecting victims by pretending to sell airline tickets they can no longer use. They will offer a low price and ask for a fee to change the name on the ticket.
Once the money has been sent, the scammer will disappear.
The offer of caravans for sale is the next most commonly reported fake item relating to holidays, according to Lloyds.
Those hoping for their own motorhome or static caravan are offered a cheap price, but may be looking at photos of a vehicle that has been copied from elsewhere.
Liz Ziegler, fraud prevention director at Lloyds Bank, said: “Always take the time to think about purchases you make online, and when in doubt, always book through a trusted retailer.”
Lloyds Bank offers these tips to stay safe from holiday scams:
Purchase tickets and hotel stays from trusted retailers or directly from the airline or hotel. Also, look for valid reviews on websites such as Tripadvisor.
2. Paying by card can give added protections.
3. Pay through booking websites’ own systems.
4. Be cautious on social media. If you are looking to buy a caravan or motorhome, always see the item in person before handing over any form of deposit.
5. If a seller is trying to rush you, or bombarding you with messages, take a step back and question whether this is pressure selling.
6. Pay attention to warnings from your bank. Your bank is likely to provide a warning when you set up a new payee or make an unusual payment. Be sure to follow any advice provided.