TRAVEL SCAM ALERT: How to spot and avoid common travel deceptions

Travelling can be an exhilarating experience, filled with adventure and the opportunity to explore new cultures. However, for many, it can also be a minefield of scams and deceit. The more travellers know about the tricks and traps scammers use, the better off they’ll be.

For example, car rental scammers set up a website that looks like a legitimate rental car company. But when travellers call and reserve a car their information and credit card information is stolen. Thieves hope that travellers are overwhelmed, stressed, confused and likely making a reservation from a smartphone while handling other, distracting issues. Travellers are advised to look closely at the website, phone number, URL address and e-mail addresses to more easily spot the fakes.

Accommodation scammers may list fake properties on bogus vacation rental websites, collecting deposits for accommodations that don’t exist. Travellers are warned to book through reputable platforms and read reviews.

Street-level cons can take many forms and often catch tourists off guard.

Ride-share impersonators posing as drivers pick up unsuspecting tourists and charge them exorbitant fees. A close criminal cousin to ride-share imposters are taxi drivers who overcharge tourists unfamiliar with the local taxi services and protocols.

Travellers are often approached at baggage claim by a person offering a taxi into the city, they are annoying and persistent. Before the trip, research where the taxi line is at the arrival airport and the usual cost for a taxi to the destination. Alternately arrange a car service through the hotel.

Fake tour guides are scammers posing as official tour guides and offer tours at inflated prices or lead tourists to overpriced shops or restaurants. Some phonies will say an attraction is closed and try to sell “special” access to you. Don’t buy it.

An alarming trend is the use of intimidation tactics by street performers. These individuals may engage in seemingly harmless acts, such as juggling or dancing, before aggressively demanding tips. These pushy street performers may become confrontational if they feel they haven’t received enough compensation for their “entertainment.”

Should a traveller find themselves in a situation where someone is being overly aggressive, it is best to walk away confidently but calmly.

One of the most insidious scams targeting travellers is the proliferation of fake travel document websites. These websites often masquerade as legitimate services that offer expedited passports or visas, but in reality, they aim to steal personal and payment information.

The website will not have a .gov address or may have a misspelling in the name – like govv.uk.com instead of uk.gov – that a traveller may not detect right away. Only the federal government can process passports, while various authorized companies can expedite visa applications for a fee.

There will always be rip-off artists targeting tourists. To avoid falling victim to these scams, remain vigilant, trust your instincts, and always do your research before engaging with strangers or making transactions.

The best traveller scam-blocker defense is knowledge. Before embarking on your trip, take the time to research not only your destination but also the common scams that occur there. Many travel blogs, forums, and government travel advisories provide valuable insights about how to identify a threat and avoid it.

Despite your best efforts, you may still encounter a scam. If this happens, it’s essential to remain calm and composed. If a con artist is aggressive, avoid engaging in a confrontation. Politely, but firmly, walk away. If you have been scammed or if you witness a scam, report it to local authorities. This can help prevent others from falling victim to the same scam and may assist law enforcement in addressing the problem.

Don’t let scams ruin your journey. Equip yourself with knowledge and stay aware. That’s the best way to ensure a safe and memorable trip.

(Harding Bush is associate director for security operations at Global Rescue, the world’s leading provider of medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services.)

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