With the rise of technology, including AI, travel scams are becoming increasingly common, casting a shadow over your much-anticipated vacation. Scammers now have more opportunities than ever to target unsuspecting travelers, from booking to the journey’s end.
“Travel scams have been a threat for years, but with technological advancements, there’s been a noticeable rise,” said Julian Moro, Senior Vice President and Regional Security Director at International SOS. “These advancements have made travelers easier targets throughout their journey. The sophistication and frequency of these scams have also grown, leading to increased awareness and caution.”
The rise of AI has particularly fueled this surge, as noted by Booking.com’s safety expert, who reported a dramatic “500 to 900% increase” in travel scams over the past 18 months. Ally Armeson, Executive Director of Programs at the Cybercrime Support Network, explains, “AI allows cybercriminals to operate on a larger scale with minimal costs. What used to take hours can now be accomplished in seconds, leading to a proliferation of nearly undetectable scams.”
Your chances of encountering a scam, and the type you might face, can vary depending on where you’re traveling. As travel writer Matthew Kepnes, also known as Nomadic Matt, pointed out, “Scams differ by region. While many won’t cause harm, some can be costly, leading to the loss of valuables like your wallet or phone.”
To help you steer clear of these pitfalls, experts have highlighted some of the most common travel scams to watch out for:
Fake Travel Document Websites
A common scam involves fraudulent websites posing as official services to help renew passports or enroll in programs like TSA PreCheck. Amy Nofziger, Director of Victim Support at the AARP Fraud Watch Network, warns, “After the pandemic, many people turned to look-alike websites, leading to lost money and compromised personal information.”
Taxi Overcharge
Beware of taxi drivers claiming their meter is broken and offering a flat rate far above the norm. “Don’t accept a ride if the driver says the meter is broken,” Moro cautioned. Ned S. Levi, a travel scam expert, adds, “You might find yourself facing an inflated fare with little recourse.”
Unsecured Wi-Fi and Hotspots
Cybercriminals often exploit unsecured Wi-Fi networks in public areas like airports. “Hackers can set up fake networks to access your device and steal data,” Armeson explained. Always verify the network and avoid unsecured connections.
Car Rental Scams
Nofziger warns of fake customer service numbers offering too-good-to-be-true deals on rental cars, often requiring upfront payment through prepaid gift cards. “Victims usually realize they’ve been scammed only when they arrive at their destination, and no rental car is waiting,” she said. Another scam involves false claims of damage after returning the vehicle, so be sure to document the car’s condition thoroughly.
Emergency Calls
Robocallers might contact your family, claiming you’re in an emergency and urgently need money. Moro advises setting up a code word with loved ones before you travel to distinguish real emergencies from scams.
‘Closed’ Tourist Attractions
Scammers may tell you a tourist site is closed and offer to take you somewhere else, often leading to pressure to make purchases. Always verify closures through official sources and avoid buying tickets from unauthorized sellers.
Fake Customer Service
AI is being used to mimic customer service representatives, tricking travelers into fraudulent transactions. Scammers scour social media for frustrated travelers and then pose as airline representatives offering help, only to steal your information.
Street Scams
Be cautious when strangers approach you, as this could be a distraction while an accomplice pickpockets you. Moro advises travelers to be aware of their surroundings and keep belongings secure. Kepnes adds that some scammers may spill something on you or ask you to sign a petition, using the distraction to steal your valuables.
ATM Scams
Scammers can use card readers to clone your card. Moro recommends withdrawing cash before your trip and using the tap feature whenever possible to avoid inserting your card into potentially compromised machines.
Fraudulent Booking Websites
Cybercriminals create fake booking websites that look legitimate but steal your money or personal data. Always use reputable platforms and avoid third-party sites. Armeson notes that AI has made these scams even more convincing, so be vigilant.
If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a scam, take immediate action to protect your data and finances. Cut off communication with the scammer, report the incident, monitor your accounts, and change passwords. If the scam involves significant losses, consider freezing your credit and contacting your travel insurance provider.
As Kepnes wisely advises, “If you’ve only lost a few dollars, consider it a lesson learned. Pay closer attention next time.”
With these tips in mind, you can enjoy your travels while staying one step ahead of potential scams.
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