ECU Fraud Talks: Vacation & Travel Scams

As warmer weather approaches, many families begin planning vacations and summer getaways. Unfortunately, scammers take advantage of this busy travel season, creating fake listings and too-good-to-be-true deals designed to steal your money.

Common Travel Scams

One of the most common scams involves fake vacation rentals. Scammers copy photos and details from legitimate listings and advertise properties at unusually low prices. Once a traveler sends a deposit, the listing disappears and so does the scammer.

Another frequent tactic is fake travel deals, or “free vacation” offers. These may come through emails, social media, or phone calls, promising deep discounts or prizes. In reality, they’re designed to collect upfront fees for trips that don’t exist. 

Warning Signs to Watch For

Be cautious if you encounter:

• Prices that seem significantly lower than similar listings 
• Requests to move communication off a trusted booking platform 
• Pressure to book immediately or “lock in” a deal 
• Requests for payment through wire transfers, gift cards, or payment apps 
• Limited details or refusal to provide information in writing 

How to Protect Yourself

Before booking your next trip:

• Stick to reputable platforms: Use well-known travel websites with secure payment systems 
• Research listings: Read reviews and verify the property appears in multiple places 
• Pay securely: Use a credit card when possible for added fraud protection 
• Take your time: Avoid rushing into deals that feel urgent or too good to be true 
• Keep records: Save confirmations, receipts, and communications

If You're Targeted by a Scam

If you believe you’ve booked a fraudulent rental or travel package:

• Contact your financial institution immediately to review the transaction and help secure your accounts 
• Report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission
• Monitor your accounts closely for any unauthorized activity 

Additional Resources

• Federal Trade Commission – Identity theft reporting and recovery tools 
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau – Consumer protection guidance and financial resources
• Better Business Bureau – Check reviews and report scams

Travel should be something to look forward to and not a source of stress. Taking a few extra minutes to verify listings, research providers, and use secure payment methods can help ensure your vacation goes as planned.