How Not To Get Caught By Online Holiday Scams
Now that spring is in the air, you might be thinking about a summer holiday with your little ones. Chances are, you’ll be booking your get-away online – according to ABTA, 83% of people booked a holiday online in 2022-23.
The problem is that people are far more susceptible to scams when buying holidays online, rather than in person with a travel agent. Sadly, Action Fraud report that they received 6,640 reports of holiday fraud in 2023, with an average loss of £1,851 per victim.
So, here are my top tips to help you avoid these scams, steer clear of fraudsters, and enjoy your well-earned break.
Trust, but verify: Before you get swept away by an amazing deal, take a moment to do a little digging. Check out reviews from fellow travellers on sites like Google, Tripadvisor, and Trustpilot. It’s an old adage, but it’s true: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably isn’t!
Look for the badges: Keep an eye out for trusty certifications like the ATOL and ABTA logos when you’re browsing travel sites. These badges of honour show that a company is legitimate. But if you want to double-check, I’d suggest that you look them up on the ATOL website here: Search for an ATOL holder | Civil Aviation Authority (caa.co.uk) or the ABTA member search here: Member Check | ABTA Protected Holiday & Travel Companies | ABTA
Click-smart: When it comes to clicking links in emails or social media ads, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Instead of taking the bait, head straight to the website yourself to see if the deal holds up. It’s the best way to avoid falling into a scammer’s trap.
Guard your information: Your personal data is like a treasure, so keep it locked up tight! Be mindful of where you’re entering your details online to avoid handing them over to scammers. Setting strong passwords and changing them regularly is highly recommended. You should also use two-factor authentication on any websites/apps which involve your finances. This adds an extra layer of security that can be a tad annoying but is worth the small inconvenience.
Plastic is fantastic: Paying with a credit card offers some extra protection under Section 75, which means your credit card company is equally as liable as the retailer if you are the victim of fraud (if the purchase is between £100 and £30,000). Be aware that debit cards don’t offer the same level of protection.
So, there you have it, a few friendly tips to keep you safe and sound while you’re planning your next getaway. With a little vigilance and a dash of common sense, you’ll be booking that dream holiday in no time! Happy travels! 🌴✈️
Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.
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About George:
I’ve been working in financial services for more than ten years. Based near Liverpool, I look after clients across the North West. I’m passionate about assisting my clients with investment and pension planning, retirement planning, and financial protection planning. As well as assisting clients who are preparing for retirement and later life, I also enjoy helping my younger clients to achieve their financial objectives and plan for the future. I really enjoy finding innovative and creative solutions which will help you to achieve your financial goals and objectives.
Qualifications:
- Level 4 Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning (CII) – The RQF level 4 Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning meets the FCA’s qualification requirements for retail investment advisers, developing core technical knowledge and financial planning capabilities across six core areas.
- CeMAP Certificate in Mortgage Advice and Practice (LIBF)
Links:
Profile page: George Tuck | Independent Financial Advisers | Liverpool (fcadvice.co.uk)
FCA Register: George Henry Tuck (fca.org.uk)
I’ve been working in financial services for more than ten years. I’m passionate about assisting my clients with investment and pension planning, retirement planning, and financial protection planning. As well as assisting clients who are preparing for retirement and later life, I also enjoy helping my younger clients to achieve their financial objectives and plan for the future. I really enjoy finding innovative and creative solutions which will help you to achieve your financial goals and objectives.