Tips to combat summer scams
Planning your holidays or busy packing your bags? Be aware that scammers are also busy planning to trick you out of your hard-earned cash. From fake websites to dodgy deals, here's how to spot and avoid common holiday ripoffs.
Watch out for copycat travel firms
The internet is rife with copycat airlines and bogus holiday firms. These fraudsters create cloned websites that mimic official logos and branding, making them look like the real deal.
Travel tip: Always check that the URL and logo match the official website exactly. Verify contact details, and if something feels off, trust your gut. While the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) sign should protect your holiday, scammers can use fake licence numbers. If in doubt, visit IAA.ie to verify the company.
Beware of fake tours and activities
Imagine paying for an action-packed tour or exciting excursion only to find it doesn't exist. Scam operators often advertise or tout non-existent activities or trips.
Travel tip: Before paying, check out verified reviews from other travellers. Be wary of red flags like poorly spelt ads, blurry images, or "limited-time offers." Never feel pressured to make an on-the-spot decision if you're approached on the street. Take their details, research, and only commit when you're ready.
Don't fall under the influence
Your social media feeds – Facebook, X, TikTok, and Instagram – are prime hunting grounds for scammers to lure sunseekers. Slick ads can spoof airlines or hotels, enticing you with quick and easy getaways that are simply too good to be true. You might even receive fake confirmation emails or booking references.
Travel tip: Always check the authenticity of the profile promoting the deal and don't get drawn in by sham influencers. The golden rule is to book flights and hotels directly through the official websites. Only part with your money once you're 100% sure it's legit.
Don't be duped by bogus government websites
Despite warnings, counterfeit websites designed to mimic government bodies continue to trick consumers into paying hefty service fees for things like renewing passports or obtaining free EHIC cards.
Travel tip: Double-check that it's an official government website before entering personal details or payment information, and be on the lookout for last-minute hidden costs. Legitimate government services are upfront about their fees.
Avoid airport parking rouges
Airport parking can significantly increase holiday costs, making cheap deals very tempting. But beware, some airport parking rogues promise to keep your car safe and secure, when the reality can be quite different. You may even return home to find your car damaged, dirty, or with added mileage.
Travel tip: Research thoroughly and book well in advance with a reputable parking firm. Read and verify recent reviews from other customers to ensure your car will be in safe hands while you're away.
Guard against car hire scams
Hiring a car or scooter online or abroad offers freedom, but it also paves the way for fraudsters. You could end up paying for damage you didn't cause or extras you didn't need.
Travel tip: Before signing any documents or driving away, scour the paperwork and take photos of the vehicle from all angles, noting any existing scratches or damage. Consider purchasing cheaper car hire excess cover from a separate insurer before you travel – it can save you a huge amount if something goes wrong.
Eoin Clarke, Commercial Director at Switcher.ie, comments: "By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can outsmart the scammers and ensure your well-deserved holiday is filled with happy memories, not financial headaches. Sadly, fraudsters are all too ready to take advantage of sun-seekers, who become easy targets for scams and ripoffs, especially once they relax and let their guard down.
"Before you spend money on your holidays, thoroughly research travel websites, tour operators, and parking firms. Read company reviews and scrutinise the small print to avoid being duped by a dodgy deal that will leave you disappointed and out of pocket. Being careful and staying alert doesn't mean having less fun. Plan for activities, car hire and day trips in advance so you're not tricked or rushed into parting with your hard-earned cash.
"While we all let down our guard a bit on holiday, sorting things like travel insurance and prepaid travel or credit cards in advance can not only protect you if things go wrong, but also boost your chances of a hassle-free getaway."