SPRING BREAK DEALS

A one-way ticket to being scammed

You got the deal of the century for a spring break vacation; a quiet house, a beach-front view, and a pool, all at an amazingly low cost. But once you arrive, the place looks nothing like the pictures. In fact, nothing matches the description on the website.

The number of things scammers can do to trick an unsuspecting, looking-for-a-good-deal vacationer would astound you. Scammers create fake airline booking sites, fake customer service numbers, and fake hotel sites, all to entice you to click on their site. Scammer send fake cancellation notices to people who have booked a flight on legitimate websites. The cancellation notice includes a phone number and information on how to rebook your trip - but it's a scam and designed to steal your personal and credit card information.

Here are some tips to use as you search for the perfect vacation:

1. Steer clear of any ad or booking site that pushes you into "buy now" for fear the deal will expire.
2. If you will stay in a private home, check public records to verify ownership, and ensure the rental /home exists and is for rent.
3. It's a red flag if the owner can't answer basic questions about the property, or local attractions.
4. Be wary of third-party websites. and double-check the website URL before you enter payment information to make sure the site is secure.
5. Always use a credit card for payment, and never wire money. Fraudulent charges on a credit card can usually be disputed.
6. Research the vacation company through the Better Business Bureau.
7. Nothing is free. No real deal is so good it is unbelievable. If it is unbelievable, it probably is a scam.
8. Avoid broad internet searches: Entering phrases like ‘best deals’ into a search engine can sometimes bring up websites that look official but are designed solely to rip people off.
9. Do your homework: Before paying for a hotel or any service, research the business and read customer reviews.
10. Before making a final payment, get all the trip details in writing: This should include the total cost, restrictions, cancellation penalties, and names of the airlines and hotels.

Minimize Your Tourist Footprint

You don't have to look like a local, but be mindful not to look like a vulnerable tourist.

Carrying a camera around your neck?

Have flyers and maps sticking out of your bags or pockets?

Looking lost?

It's ok to be lost, but try not to look lost. Stow that camera, tuck away those guide brochures and maps, and walk with confidence. Scammers prey on vulnerability. The less you look like a tourist, the less vulnerable you are to the everyday travel scams.t