(BBB, Joe Ducey)
With spring break coming up and summer not too far away, you might be looking for travel deals or changing existing plans. BBB Pacific Southwest, Central & Inland California is warning travelers about a new scam that could cost them thousands of dollars. BBB Scam Tracker complaints show how the scam involves fake customer service sites for airlines, cruise ships, and more.
Most complaints show a similar pattern:
- In most cases, the consumer has an issue with an existing reservation.
- They perform a search online for a customer service number.
- Instead of search results displaying the legitimate American Airlines, United Airlines or Expedia information, they receive the scammer’s top search listing.
The customer service scam is just the latest in a series of travel scams BBB has warned consumers about. Read more about the others.
Expert industry speaker available:
Joe Ducey, BBB’s AVP of Public Engagement and Investigative Outreach, and the Joe Knows Better Podcast's host, is a consumer protection expert. He shares insights on trending scams, ethical business practices, and empowers consumers to make informed decisions. He is available for media interviews on such topics.
Download pre-recorded clips to complement your coverage:
“We’re seeing people trying to make changes to their travel reservations and looking for a customer service number. They’re finding them at the top of internet searches. But, instead of getting the real airline or travel business, they’re getting a scam site. They’re being talked out of hundreds, even thousands of dollars to make changes to reservations that could never happen.”
“If the customer service rep cannot give you details about your reservation or you’re asked to pay for fees that just don’t make sense, hang up. Better yet, don’t trust what comes up first on online customer service searches. Instead, log into your account and contact them or spend some time and find the real deal.”
Segment tips for avoiding travel scams:
- Look for reviews and ask for references. While vetting hotels, travel companies, vacation rentals and more, check BBB.org for reviews and complaints. To find trusted businesses, look for the BBB Seal. Look for photos and read a variety of reviews. If the property or company doesn't have any online reviews or photos, ask them for references and call them.
- Remember, a great deal might be too good to be true. Scammers lure in targets by guaranteeing an amazing trip at a very low price. Research it first. If the hotel, travel or tour is much cheaper than similar options, be suspicious.
- Book your travel online safely. Take extra caution when using a third-party booking site. Make sure you are on a secure, legitimate website before booking your travel and making a payment. If you’re unsure about the site, go directly to the hotel or airline’s website and book directly with them.
- Avoid wiring money or using a prepaid debit card to pay for your vacation. These payments are the same as sending cash. Once the money is sent, there is no way to get it back. When paying with a credit card, the charges can be disputed.
- Do some research. Check the website for links to the company's social media accounts. If they do have social media accounts, check their activity and see if any other users have left reviews or voiced complaints. Also, look for typos and pixelated images. These mistakes are signs of a scammer, not a company that cares about its online presence.
More information
For media inquiries, contact pr@bbbcommunity. Please allow a 24 hour courtesy for interview requests. For additional news stories, visit BBB.org/us/news. Published with permission from Better Business Bureau.
