Summer is a prime time for vacation travel, and if you're planning a last-minute getaway, it's crucial to be aware of a growing scam trend. As travel costs continue to rise, many people are searching for the best deals online. Unfortunately, cybercriminals are taking advantage of this by using highly convincing, AI-generated phishing emails that can do serious damage to your finances.
Booking.com's CISO, Marnie Wilking, has reported a staggering 500% to 900% increase in travel-related scams over the past 18 months. These scammers are using AI tools to craft realistic-looking emails that can easily trick even the most cautious travelers.
Here's how the scam works: Scammers target popular sites like Booking.com and Airbnb, creating fake listings for short-term rentals. They send emails offering incredible rates or time-sensitive deals. Once someone pays, the scammers either disappear with the money or continue to demand additional fees before vanishing.
While these types of scams aren't new, the rise of AI has made them more convincing and harder to detect.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: This adds an extra layer of security, making it harder for scammers to access your accounts.
- Avoid Clicking on Email Links: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Go directly to the website to verify the offer.
- Verify Property Details: Before booking, check for contact information and reviews from verified users.
- Use Credit Cards for Purchases: Credit cards offer better protection against fraud compared to debit cards.
- Stay Vigilant: Always analyze email offers carefully and follow cybersecurity best practices.
Protect your vacation by staying informed and cautious. If you’re unsure or need help securing your online activities, give us a call. We're here to help you stay safe online so you can enjoy your travels with peace of mind.
This isn't just about avoiding a scam; it's about ensuring your hard-earned vacation goes smoothly. If you have questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Let's make sure your travel experience is memorable for all the right reasons.
Personal scams may ruin a vacation, but business breaches can cost you and your family their livelihood. To keep your network secure, call us at 763-331-6227 or click here to book a FREE 14-minute discovery call with our cyber security experts, who can help you create a plan that protects you. We are here to help! Enjoy a well-deserved break this summer, and remember to be cybersmart.
