Booking holidays and travel

Most of us count down the days to a holiday or a quick getaway … and we usually find and book it online.

But fraudsters love the internet just as much as you do. They set up fake websites, listings, emails, ads, social media posts and texts and even make phone calls, all designed to trick you into paying for a holiday, flight or other trip that simply doesn’t exist. Sometimes, they’re made even more convincing with the use of AI.

To help you avoid losing your break and your money, we’ve pulled together some straightforward tips to help you search and book with safety and confidence.

How to avoid losing your holiday and your money

Take time to research your package holiday, flight, accommodation, cruise, pilgrimage or any other trip properly. Make sure it’s genuine.
Check that the accommodation is real by looking it up on Google Maps and reading independent reviews. Make sure there’s a phone number and call the owner or agent directly to confirm they’re authorised to sell the holiday. If there’s no number, ask for one. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the area. Check out our helpful tools at www.getsafeonline.org/selfhelptoolcentre
Look at reviews on TripAdvisor or similar sites.
Avoid paying by bank transfer unless you’ve bought from the seller before. If it’s a scam, you may not get your money back. Paying by credit card gives you far more protection.
If you’re using Airbnb, keep all communication and payments on the Airbnb platform. If someone tries to take you off the platform, it could be a red flag. You’ll find safety advice at www.airbnb.co.uk
Check that any travel agent or tour operator is a member of ABTA or ATOL by visiting their official websites.
Read the terms and conditions before you pay.
Before entering payment details, type the website address directly into your browser (don’t follow a link) and make sure the payment page is secure — it should start with ‘https’ and show a padlock symbol.
Keep all confirmations and receipts and check your bank or credit card statements for anything unusual.
If you do lose money, report it to your bank straight away — the sooner you act, the better your chance of recovering your money and helping trace the fraudster. Also report it to Report Fraud on 0300 123 20 40 or at www.reportfraud.police.uk. In Scotland, report to Police Scotland on 101.

For more advice on booking holidays and travel safely online, visit www.getsafeonline.org, choose ‘Protecting Yourself’ and then ‘Holiday & Travel Booking’.