Scam experts warned British tourists to watch out for fake hotels when booking holiday accommodation online.
January is traditionally the busiest month for booking holidays as people make plans for the year ahead. Travelling abroad can bring a welcome break from the routine of everyday life, giving the chance to explore new cultures, meet new people and chill on a beach.
But holidays can also be fraught with potential problems in a country you’re not familiar with. Some people exploit this to target tourists with scams, so experts at Scams.info have put together some tips on avoiding “the most widespread scams targeting tourists abroad”, including phony covid tests, illegitimate hotels, and insecure WiFi.
Hotel and Accommodation
Scams.info warned you could be booking holiday accommodation that “isn’t real” or is “outdated and different to the visuals provided” if you’re not careful. The experts advised people to “look for reviews with images and check to make sure it’s a registered building”, saying: “By booking through reputable travel agencies, you can avoid illegitimate accommodation as the agency will cover all of the above bases for you.”
Phony PCR tests
With some countries requiring arriving passengers to present a valid, negative Covid-19 test before entering the country, travellers have to go through the extra effort and cost of paying for a PCR test. Scams.info said: “Amid reports that scammers have been caught conning holidaymakers with fake PCR tests and ‘fit to fly’ certificates, it is vital to always ensure that any PCR test you take is from a reputable source. If you’re traveling from the UK, you can purchase PCR tests from most pharmacies and report the results through the NHS app.”
Taxis
You could end up in the wrong place for “extremely high rates” if you hop in an unregulated taxi from the airport, Scams.info warned. It said: “Unregulated airport taxis could take advantage of the fact that you aren’t local and may be uneducated on typical fares. As a result, you could be charged extremely high rates or taken to the incorrect destination which pay the taxi a finder’s fee, rather than the hotel, restaurant or particular business you requested.”
Make sure you research “reliable, licensed taxi firms” and check the driver is carrying and displaying their ID badge, as is required in most countries. Scams.info said: “Always ask the driver what the fare will be, before starting the journey. If the driver refuses to show you their ID or pre-warn you of fares, book with another taxi firm and do not enter the vehicle.”
Public WiFi
Public WiFi can be a lifesaver if you don’t have data on your phone. But using it could put your personal data at risk because public networks aren’t as secure as your private one at home. Scams.info said: “When browsing the internet, make sure you don’t use sites and apps that involve inputting personal information, like contact details or bank card details. Alternatively you can download a VPN, which will allow you to block any unwarranted third party companies from accessing your data.”
Pickpockets
The “oldest scam in the book”, according to Scams.info, pickpockets are “becoming increasingly creative”. The experts said: “Scammers may interact with you directly, to allow time for a third party to steal from under your nose whilst you’re distracted. When in crowded, public spaces, it’s always vital to keep your personal belongings close by. It’s best practice to leave valuables at home, but if you must bring them with you, store them in a money belt or bum bag to prevent theft.”
Activities and excursions
Illegitimate companies may lack the health and safety precautions needed to keep you safe, so Scams.info said you should always book activities and excursions through official companies. It said: “The safest option is to book any extra activities or excursions directly through the official travel agency that you booked your trip with. If you choose to book with a third-party, thoroughly research the company beforehand and always look at previous customer reviews.”
“Official” photographers
Landmarks don’t have official photographers, but some scammers will try to make you part with your cash by insisting only their photos are permitted. Scams.info warned “this is just a ploy to force you into paying them for something that is otherwise free”.
It added: “To avoid this, always consult staff working in or nearby landmarks as they will likely have great general knowledge of the area and be able to advise you on any photography regulations.”
Gambling
Casino staff may try to “take advantage” of your “lack of knowledge” by explaining games in a lengthy way, according to Scams.info, which said: “Make sure to thoroughly research any casino games you may take part in whilst on holiday, to avoid being scammed.”
