Holiday scams
Holiday scams are when criminals impersonate a trusted website to trick you into booking a holiday through them so they can steal your money or your personal details.
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Step 1: Scammer will create fake adverts and websites
You see an advert on social media or a website for a holiday deal at a great price.
Scammers know you may let your guard down when browsing holiday booking websites you trust, such as AirBnb and Booking.com. These websites work hard to keep their listings free from fraud but some fake listings do get through.
They also know that when people see a deal that stands out, you are more likely to rush into booking to avoid missing out. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
Step 2: You trust their advert or website so you make a booking
Next you make contact with the seller or select dates to book on their website.
Whatever technique a scammer may use to try to convince you that their holidays are genuine, they’ll usually ask you to pay them by bank transfer. Most genuine companies would not do this.
Step 3: Scammer will take the payment and disappear
Once you provide payment information or send money, the scammer vanishes. Then the fake website or social media page is taken down and you never receive the product or service you paid for.
Fake cancellations and refunds
Scammers know that not everything goes to plan with trips away. And when things do go wrong, it’s stressful to deal with.
They’ll often take advantage of this by telling you part of, or all of your trip has been cancelled. They offer to make new arrangements for you, or to provide a refund. They’ll ask for your bank details, and may even ask you to pay an administration fee by bank transfer.
Always check carefully who the message has come from. If in doubt, try using the contact details on their official website, or try contacting the holiday booking website, if you booked it through one.
Do not let yourself be rushed by anyone contacting you.
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Check that the advert or website you have viewed is from a genuine company
Make sure you check the website address that you are on. Look out for different characters. If unsure, search for the company’s genuine web address and check the same holiday deal is listed.
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Be aware of adverts and pop-ups
If an advert or pop-up opens up an external website, check it carefully to make sure it is from a genuine company.
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Use reputable companies
Some fake websites may be advertising unknown companies. It’s best to stick to reputable companies if you can and research any you’ve not heard of.
Be aware that fake websites use fake reviews, so always check independent review websites such as TripAdvisor or Trustpilot.
You can also check if a company is a member of ATOL or ABTA.
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Avoid paying for goods by bank transfer
Pay by debit or credit card if possible – these payment methods give you better legal protections than bank transfers.
Make sure you always use the internal payment system when using holiday booking websites.
Learn more
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Take Five
Take Five offers straightforward and impartial advice to help everyone protect themselves from fraud.
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Common fraud threats
Find out more about common fraud threats and how to avoid them.
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