Fraud Bulletin

Posted on by Jane
Source: Denver DA Office

Avoid Vacation Rental Scams to Keep Your Summertime Livin’ Easy

Ah, summer, a time to get away for worry-free days and magical adventures. As the season winds down and Labor Day weekend draws near, many are squeezing in one last escape. Like any get-away, half the fun is in the planning, but be aware as you peruse those breath-taking venues. Fraudsters can easily create listings or fake websites that look real or even hijack legitimate listings to take your money and quickly turn your glorious plans into a cruel, cruel summer.

Watch for These Red Flags
  • The listing is full of typos.
  • Pictures and descriptions don’t match up to their prices.
  • You’re asked to finalize the reservation on a platform outside the actual one.
  • The owner insists on being paid by prepaid gift card or wire transfer.

More Vacation Scams, Courtesy of the Better Business Bureau

Free vacation scams: When a cruise or travel company advertises a vacation as “free,” it does not necessarily mean the trip is entirely without cost or restrictions. Read the fine print and watch out for add-on fees for air transportation to the port, port charges, taxes, tips, and other undisclosed fees.

Fake front desk calls: Scammers often call late at night or right after check-in, impersonating the front desk person. The caller claims there’s a problem with the card on file and asks the traveler to “re-verify” the credit card information.

Free wi-fi connections: Wi-fi “skimming” targets travelers with the promise of free internet access. Scammers set up a fake connection that appears to be free hotel wi-fi, but it is collecting all the data the traveler transmits including passwords, card information, and more.

Only use secure, private network to check personal accounts or do any banking transactions.

 

The best defense against fraud is to always remember these three practices:

  • Know your vulnerabilities Be self-aware when you are eager to find what you want or need or when you might be too eager to help a friend or loved one in distress.
  • Resist the temptation to suspend your suspicion If it’s too good – or too outrageous – to be true, it probably is.
  • Be aware of pressure to act, whether to act quickly or submit any unusual payment, such as Zelle or gift cards.