Jet-setters are increasingly falling victim to sneaky, fake airline websites during their travel bookings. Last month, The Travel Network Group (TTNG) in the U.K. gave its members an “urgent” warning to be alert and mindful of websites posing as airline websites.
A Facebook post from the organization specified that “fraudulent websites” were posing “as legitimate airline booking portals.” TTNG claimed the ongoing scam had targeted some of its members.
According to Travel Weekly, TTNG alleged that the rise in fake airline websites could lead to financial loss and mistrust in the travel industry.
“Protecting our members and their customers is our top priority,” said TTNG CEO Gary Lewis. “The rise in fraudulent airline websites poses a significant threat, and it is imperative that we take immediate action.”
What Can You Do To Avoid Falling Victim To False Airline Scams?
Travel Weekly noted that TTNG’s advisory included details on the following, which could help avoid airline scams:
- Verifying URLS
- Online browsing via secure connections
- Using trusted sources
- Avoiding clicking on email links
- Regularly updating passwords
- Utilizing multi-factor authentication
- Having updated security software
In June 2024, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) said its Scam Tracker “has received multiple reports of scammers creating fake airline ticket booking sites, or customer service numbers to charge travelers for rescheduling fake flights.” The non-profit organization advised being wary of third-party travel websites.
“Be suspicious of websites with no working customer service number or physical address. Typos and grammatical errors can indicate a scammer’s handiwork,” the BBB outlined.
“It can be easy to click on a sponsored ad or impostor website without noticing,” the organization added elsewhere in its advisory. “Before entering any sensitive information, double-check that you are on the right website and that the link is secure.”
