By Sandra Guile
Better Business Bureau
Hotels or condos nestled next to idyllic sandy white beaches and deep blue ocean views sound like the perfect place to go for a vacation. That image and thought can be swiftly scrapped by a scammer who is fooling people into paying for something that doesn’t exist.
Before plugging in your credit card number and packing the suitcase BBB recommends doing a little research first.
It Looked So Real
Con artists post listings for properties that either aren’t for rent, don’t exist or are significantly different in person than what’s pictured on the internet. These scenes are often copied images from the internet and the crook will then draft advertising copy to make it sound like a great deal that’s available for a limited time only. It sounds so enticing the user can’t help but click on the ad to learn more or make a reservation.
Illigit Payment Process
Once the ad is clicked, the user is taken to the reservation and payment page only to learn they can book the promised getaway using a prepaid card or wire transfer transaction. At this point, the best thing to do is exit out of the site immediately before entering any personal information.
Know Before You Book
Finding a great deal on a unique vacation destination takes a little work and comparison shopping. Just be sure you’re not swayed by the tempting images or creative copy. Take time to dig a little deeper and find out more about the company that is offering the retreat location to make sure it is truly legitimate by using bbb.org or a reputable travel agent.
See a Scam, Report It
If you do happen across a shady operation, report it to the Federal Trade Commission, State Attorney General Office or scamtracker.org.
Sandra Guile is the Community Outreach Specialist for BBB. She promotes BBB’s message of marketplace ethics through public speaking engagements, presentations, media relations, press releases, web content, and other written materials. Your BBB is located at 1 East 4th Street Suite 600 Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 – to reach the office, call (513) 421-3015.
