Summer is here and travel plans are picking up.
But unfortunately, so are travel-related scams, catching people off guard when they’re focused on enjoying a well-deserved getaway.
According to research done by McAfee, more than one in three Americans have encountered a travel-related cyberthreat, and 41% of those impacted lost money, often exceeding $500.
Common scams include:
- Fake travel websites
- Misleading vacation listings
- Fraudulent payment pages
The Federal Trade Commission warns that scammers often create fake travel websites featuring deals that seem too good to be true. These sites may use misleading listings or fraudulent payment options to steal money and personal information. Legitimate travel websites will not advertise “free” vacations or pressure travelers to use payment apps.
That’s where credit unions can step in to help. By offering tools like card and digital banking alerts, they give members real-time visibility into account activity. These alerts make it easier to quickly spot and respond to suspicious transactions, especially while traveling, adding an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
Travel Tips
Before booking your next trip, keep these tips in mind:
- Research travel companies and booking sites thoroughly
- Ask friends or family for trusted travel site recommendations
- Search online for reviews or complaints before booking
- Report suspicious activity or possible scams immediately
- Use secure payment methods, such as credit cards
- Avoid payment requests from payment apps not affiliated with the travel site
- Verify travel plans and confirmations with trusted sources
Always remember, if something doesn’t look right, contact your financial institution immediately. This gives them the chance to step in, secure your account, and help prevent further unauthorized activity. Acting quickly not only limits potential losses but also ensures you have the support and guidance you need.
For more tips, visit Members 1st’s website.