Don’t let scammers spoil your spring vacation

Winter is beginning to fade, and if you’re like me, you’re longing for spring and warm weather.

When you’re planning a trip – whether it’s a spring break jaunt or another trip – you may be tempted to sign up an offer that looks like great deal. Unfortunately, scammers sometimes hide behind those offers. All they want is to steal your money.

Here’s one widely-used ploy, said Gema de las Heras, consumer education specialist for the Federal Trade Commission:

You might get a call about a “free” vacation, but they say you have to pay fees, so that means it’s not really free. Or you may get an email for a travel package at a low price, but the organizer won’t give you the specifics such as where you’d be staying.

Those offers might be scams. Not only could your dream vacation turn into a nightmare, but if you pay, it’ll be hard to get your money back.

How to avoid a travel scam:

• Do some research. Look up the name of the travel company or agent with the words “scam,” “review,” or “complaint” to see what others.
• Don’t sign or pay until you have specific details. Ask for the exact address of the hotel or resort so you can research it independently. Also, get copies of the cancellation and return policies before you sign or pay.
• Don’t pay with wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Dishonest travel package promoters will ask you to pay in one of these ways, but that’s a sure sign of a scam.
• Be skeptical if you’re being pressured to sign up before a deadline. High pressure sales are the sure sign of a scam.

Learn more at ftc.gov/TravelScams.