Criminals are using new tricks to con holidaymakers into parting with their cash, including 'fake caravan listings', it has been warned.
West Mercia Police said fraudsters were sharing 'too good to be true' offers for holidays, villa rentals and holiday lets. The force issued the warning over the variety of methods being used to 'trick the public' as part of its weekly economic fraud update.
Rising threat of holiday fraud
In their update, police wrote: "Whilst people increasingly use the Internet as a marketplace to book their holidays, at the same time fraudsters and criminals are also ready to jump in and exploit this marketplace with fraudulent offers and deals."
These offers are many and various, and range from fake caravan or motorhome listings, to the 'too good to be true' offers for holidays, villa rentals and holiday lets. Criminals use a variety of methods to trick the public into handing over their money and personal information.
Advice to stay safe
Police urged everyone to be suspicious of prices and offers which look too good to be true. "If it's at a rock bottom price ask yourself why," the force advised.
"Do your research before making any purchases by reading reviews of the site or person you're purchasing from. Before booking accommodation ask what checks the agent makes on both the landlord and advertised property."
Any addresses should also be verified through searches and Google maps, as it "may have been copied from a genuine website", the force warned.
Booking through reputable companies
They advised anyone booking a holiday to do so through a reputable travel company that is a member of a trade body such as ABTA, ABTOT or ATOL - where possible.
"If you do decide to book independently, establish if you're dealing with the property owner, a letting agent or via the local tourist information desk," West Mercia Police added.
Additional precautions
"Ensure you read the terms and conditions before making any bookings to confirm exactly what you're being sold. Double-check both your travel and accommodation information, particularly if there is a long gap between making the booking and arrival."
"Always use the secure payment options recommended by reputable online travel providers. Where possible, use a credit card when making purchases over £100 and up to £30,000 as you receive protection under Section 75 rules."
"Always access the website you are purchasing from by typing it into your web browser, and be wary of clicking on links in unsolicited emails. The website should use the padlock symbol to indicate that the site is secure."
