Fresh warning to Staffordshire and Cheshire holidaymakers over booking scams
Scammers are taking advantage of travel restrictions easing
Last updated 21st May 2021
Holidaymakers across Staffordshire and Cheshire are being warned to be extra vigilant as cases of travel fraud become more apparent in our area.
Gary Murray is the Head of Crimestoppers for Staffordshire and Cheshire. He said:
"With the relaxation of travel restrictions to countries like Portugal, the public should be aware that there is the potential for fraudsters to trick people into parting with their money or their bank details. This year, many people are really looking forward to some sunshine and getting away - but there're some simple things that they should look out for. If it's an incredibly cheap deal, then remember the old adage of 'if it's too good to be true, then it's likely not to be genuine'."
Last year, criminals targeted 56% of unsuspecting holidaymakers booking airline tickets and 29% booking accommodation.
Gary said: "Never pay via bank transfer, or give your bank details over the internet. It's always safer to use a credit card. And again, book through bona fide suppliers. So if you're unsure of the company that you're looking for, try and look at online reviews.
"Go on to their website, check it out. If they're genuine websites, there should be a little padlock symbol at the top in your browser. And again, do not give out your details to somebody who is providing their own accommodation on an online advert. It's always safer to go through a supplier."
A third of reports stated the victim had contact with the suspect after they responded to an online advertisement or on social media. Facebook was the most common platform for fraud.
Gary added: "Whether that's a holiday cottage, a free hotel deal, or a guest house in Blackpool. Always check that it's a bonafide business. If you're suddenly in your emails and a chance to win a free holiday pops up and you're suddenly the lucky winner - being asked to give some bank details - do not be tricked into giving any details. Many people are losing money this way to fraudsters. You don't want to be a victim.
"The fraudsters will look to make money wherever they can. They are targeting people throughout Staffordshire in Cheshire. So it's really important that before you book, you do a thorough check on the accommodation, the company you're booking through, to make sure it is a legitimate business."
Many cases include victims that have searched for flight tickets online and have found a website they believe to be the company’s genuine website. In other cases, victims have used what they believe to be legitimate flight comparison websites to search for flights.
In both instances, victims reported being contacted by someone purporting to be from the airline, or flight comparison website, to take them through the booking procedure and take payment.
Pauline Smith is the Head of Action Fraud. She said:
“We are all more eager than ever to go on a holiday and relax with family and friends, following the coronavirus pandemic. However, criminals will stop at nothing when it comes to defrauding innocent people out of a well-deserved break and their hard-earned cash.
“Criminals are increasingly using more sophisticated ways to trick their victims, which is why it’s important that we all do our research when booking a holiday and making travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re planning on travelling abroad, or going on a domestic holiday this year, remember, if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
Tops tip to avoid falling victim to holiday fraud
- Stay safe online: check the web address is legitimate and has not been altered by slight changes to a domain name – such as going from .co.uk to .org.
- Do your research: don’t just rely on one review – do a thorough online search to ensure the company is credible. If a company is defrauding people, there is a good chance that consumers will post details of their experience, and warnings about the company.
- Look for the logo: check whether the company is an ABTA Member. Look for the ABTA logo on the company's website. If you have any doubts, you can verify membership of ABTA online on their website. If you're booking a flight and want more information about ATOL protection, or would like to check whether a company is an ATOL holder, visit the CAA website.
- Pay safe: wherever possible, pay by credit card. You should avoid paying directly into a private individual’s bank account.
- Check the paperwork: you should study receipts, invoices and terms and conditions, and be very wary of any companies that don’t provide any at all. When booking through a Holiday Club or Timeshare, get the contract thoroughly vetted by a solicitor before signing up.
- Use your instincts: if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
If you think you’ve been a victim of travel fraud, contact your bank immediately and report it to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or report it to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.