Planning a trip abroad? Don’t fall for these travel booking scams

* This article is sponsored by Equifax.

Whether you’re planning for spring break, a quick winter escape or a summer overseas, booking a trip should be fun and exciting. But as you search the internet for the best deals, it’s important to remember that scammers are out there too, ready to target your money and personal information.

These scams are more than just a simple inconvenience. They can lead to identity theft, allowing fraudsters to apply for credit in your name or take over your social media accounts. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent ID theft from happening to you.

Here is a list of common travel booking scams, plus some tips to protect yourself while planning your next getaway.

Travel booking scams to watch out for

Learning to recognize phishing attempts

A phishing scam is when someone tricks you into thinking they are a person or company you trust. Their goal is to make you feel secure enough to share personal details like passwords or credit card information, and they often do this through fake emails, texts or websites.

Many scammers are using AI and other technology to make themselves look more legitimate. Their messages might promise a free trip or a steep discount, but they typically also include links to fake websites or attachments designed to steal your personal details.

Scammers are getting more personal in their phishing attempts, sometimes posing as a company CEO, emailing employees and asking them to do things like purchase gift cards and send them the redemption codes.

Avoiding vacation rental scams

These criminals are also creating fake vacation rental listings on legitimate sites like Airbnb and Vrbo, luring travelers with attractive photos and prices. Then they persuade victims to pay “the host” (a.k.a. themselves) directly rather than through the platform’s payment system, usually with the promise of avoiding taxes or fees.

These direct payments bypass the platform's security measures. Once payment is made, the scammer disappears, leaving the traveller without accommodation—or their hard-earned money.

Fraudulent travel website scams

Some scammers set up fake websites that mimic legitimate airlines or travel agencies. These sites might even rank high on search results, tricking you into thinking they’re credible. After making a booking and entering your payment details, you’re left with compromised financial information and no booking.

Protect yourself from ID theft while booking travel

Booking travel online requires the same caution as online shopping. Here’s how to stay safe:

Type in the URL of any travel site

If you see an advertisement from an airline or travel agency, avoid clicking it, and type in their URL directly instead. That way, you can make sure you’re visiting their official website.

Use secure payment methods

Never try to avoid Airbnb or Vrbo fees by booking directly with the host. Pay with a credit card instead of an e-transfer or a debit card, and use the secure (and insured) payment platform offered by the booking site.

Verify the source

If you get an email that looks like it’s coming from someone you know but doesn’t quite sound like them, double-check the sender’s email address to make sure it’s the one they usually use. If anything seems off, don’t reply; instead, call or message them directly to confirm they actually sent it.

Consider a travel agent

Booking through a provincially regulated travel agency adds an extra layer of protection. Travel agents are knowledgeable about scams and can help ensure your plans are secure.

What to do if you’ve been scammed

If you think you’ve fallen victim to a travel booking scam, act quickly:

1. First, report the scam. Contact your local police, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) and the platform where you encountered the scam.
2. Next, reach out to your bank and credit card company. Let them know what’s happened immediately so they can freeze any compromised cards or accounts and monitor for suspicious transactions.
3. Then, notify the credit bureaus, including Equifax, to flag potential issues with your credit file.
4. And finally, use a credit monitoring service to catch any suspicious activity early.

Equifax Complete^TM Protection is a multi-layered credit and cybersecurity protection service that helps detect ID fraud and mitigate the damage, if it happens. It includes features like:

• WebScan, which searches for your personal data on the dark web and alerts you if any of your personal data is found.
• Social media monitoring, which keeps an eye on your social media accounts to monitor for suspicious activity.
• Identity restoration support, which provides expert help to restore your identity if you’re a victim of ID fraud.

The bottom line

By staying cautious and using secure travel booking practices, you can avoid common pitfalls and enjoy the excitement of planning your trip. And while you’re on vacation, it’s wise to keep ID fraud protection top of mind. For more tips, check out 5 travelling habits that put you at risk for identity theft.

A little extra effort up front can make all the difference between a relaxing getaway and a financial headache. So go ahead and book that trip. Just don’t let scammers come along for the ride.

Also read:

• • It’s a new year — a great time to clean up your digital profile
  • Is social media putting your identity at risk?
  • What to know when buying the Equifax Complete Protection product
  • Credit card fraud 101
  • Financial fraud: Are you covered?