How to avoid holiday scams this summer

Keep your holiday plans safe from scammers

The sun’s out, bags are packed and you’re ready for an unforgettable getaway. But, while you’re dreaming of cocktails at the beach or luxury dining at sea, scammers are plotting new ways to take advantage of unsuspecting travellers.

Every year, thousands of people fall victim to holiday scams. Last year alone, over £12million was lost to this type of scam, according to Action Fraud. With summer being the busiest time of year for travel, it’s also when these scams are most prevalent.

Customers of private banks, who often book luxury trips, can be prime targets for scams, which is why it’s important to stay alert and take note of a few simple tips to keep your holiday stress-free and your finances secure.

Spot the signs of a holiday scam:

Most of today’s holiday scams happen online. Fraudsters build convincing fake websites or clone legitimate ones, often appearing in paid adverts on social media or search engines. It can be almost impossible to tell them apart from the real thing.

Here are some common red flags to look out for:

• Too good to be true flight deals: Ultra-low fares from ‘major airlines’ are often fake. Scammers will copy trusted brands to lure you in.
• Fake holiday homes: That dream villa you are considering might not exist. Scammers will list fake properties, even on legitimate sites, that disappear once you’ve paid for them.
• Convincing fake websites: Scam sites often look real, with genuine logos, slick images, and fake reviews.
• Bogus refund offers: After a cancellation, scammers can pose as travel companies to steal your personal or banking details.
• Pressure to pay by bank transfer: Scammers will often push for direct transfers and refuse card payments. If a provider won’t accept cards, walk away.

Real life example:

A few years ago, a family booked a hotel in Cyprus through a listing on Booking.com. The hotel had its own website and looked completely legitimate. But when they arrived, the property was shut down and had been for some time. Online searches revealed a tragic incident had occurred there months earlier, and the site was still cordoned off by police tape.

It transpired scammers had copied images and details from the original hotel website to create a fake listing. Because the booking wasn’t made through a travel agent, the victims weren’t covered by travel insurance and ended up having to spend significantly more on last-minute accommodation.

How to stay safe when booking your trip:

While scammers may be clever, a few smart steps can go a long way in keeping your holiday plans safe:

• Research the company properlyDon’t rely on a professional-looking website or a great offer. Look up reviews, check contact details, and make sure there’s more than just a mobile number or email address.
• Check for official credentialsGenuine holiday providers should be members of ABTA, ATOL or ABTOT. If you can’t find evidence of this, think twice.
• Be cautious with linksIt’s always safer to type a website address directly into your browser rather than clicking on an advert or link from an email or social media sites.
• Don’t fall for cheap pricesEveryone loves a bargain, but if something seems far cheaper than the rest of the market, it might not be what it seems.
• Verify the propertyUse tools like Google Maps and trusted review sites to check the location. Ask the agent how they verify listings. Reputable ones won’t mind explaining.
• Stick with trusted providersWhenever possible, book directly with hotels or through established travel agents. If you’re booking independently, confirm who you’re dealing with.

Be smart, be cautious, and take the steps now to protect your holiday later. If you think you’ve spotted a scam, report it immediately to your Private Banker or our Client Services Centre. A little caution now means a stress-free holiday later. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts.

If you are ever unsure, Nedbank Private Wealth clients can contact us at +44 (0)1624 645000 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm UK time, except for UK public holidays) or +44 (0)20 8167 3223 outside these hours.

Stay safe and enjoy your break.

For more tips and advice, visit our Protect Yourself from Fraud page .