Police in Northern Ireland are cautioning travelers about the dangers of holiday scams, as new data reveals that over £100,000 was lost to fraudulent schemes last year. Between January 1 and December 31, 2024, the PSNI received 74 reports of holiday fraud, resulting in a total reported loss of £105,553. This marks a decrease from the previous year, where 89 reports were made, with losses totaling £155,245.
Chair of ScamwiseNI Superintendent Joanne Gibson highlighted the importance of vigilance when booking holidays online, noting that scammers often prey on individuals seeking the best deals. She emphasized that offers that seem too good to be true could be a red flag for potential scams, leaving unsuspecting victims out of pocket and without a holiday to look forward to.
Gibson advised travelers to take precautions before making any bookings, such as checking for recognized logos like ABTA and ATOL. She recommended conducting thorough research to ensure the legitimacy of the deal and avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes. By following the ‘Stop Check Report’ advice, travelers can protect themselves and their finances from potential scams.
### Spotting Online Holiday Scams
When it comes to avoiding online holiday scams, the PSNI offers some key advice to travelers:
#### Stop – Be cautious with bank transfer requests and opt for paying with a credit card if possible. Credit cards provide added protection for online purchases, making them a safer payment option. Avoid sending money via bank transfer to unknown individuals or entities.
#### Check – Conduct extensive research before finalizing any bookings. Don’t rely on a single website or review; instead, look for multiple sources to verify the legitimacy of the offer. Look for recognizable logos, verify company memberships with Abta, and ensure that flight bookings are Atol-approved.
#### Report – In case of any financial losses due to fraud, report the incident promptly to the police at 101, inform your bank immediately, or submit a report to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040. Additional information and guidance on avoiding scams are available on the ScamwiseNI website and Facebook page.
By following these simple steps and staying vigilant while booking holidays online, travelers can protect themselves from falling victim to fraudulent schemes and ensure a safe and enjoyable vacation experience. Remember, a little extra caution can go a long way in safeguarding your hard-earned money and holiday plans.
