WEEKLY FRAUD UPDATE FROM WEST MERCIA POLICE – ECONOMIC CRIME UNIT – 04/06/2024

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Posted on behalf of West Mercia police

HOLIDAY FRAUD

This is the time when many people are looking for that last minute bargain on the holiday market and, as always, the criminals are intent on using this as another opportunity to tempt the unwary buyer with “too good to be true offers”.

Holiday fraud is when a criminal impersonates trusted companies or creates a fake company to trick you into booking a holiday through them and giving out your personal or financial information.
Most holiday scams take place online. Criminals set up fake websites and online ads that appear to sell flights, holiday packages, accommodation, and tour operator packages. They could be for domestic or overseas travel.

HOW YOU CAN SPOT HOLIDAY FRAUD: 
•    You’re offered a “too good to be true” discount or holiday deal.
•    You’re asked to pay via bank transfer rather than a secure payment platform.
•    The website you’re purchasing from was only launched a few days/weeks ago.
•    You’re asked to pay an invoice you haven’t yet received.
•    You’re offered help with a refund by telephone, email or a social media account.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF: 
•    Stop and ask yourself why it’s so cheap could it be “too good to be true”?
•    Always stay on a secure platform, and pay via the payment platform there.
•    Always access the website you are purchasing from by typing it into your web browser, and be wary of clicking on links in unsolicited emails. The website should use the padlock symbol to indicate that the site is secure.
•    Research and read the reviews of the company you’re booking through, and where possible, book directly with an established hotel, or through a reputable travel company that is a member of a trade body such as ABTA or ATOL
•    Verify that the address exists through web searches and online maps.
•    See if you can find a picture of your accommodation on any other websites to check it’s not being copied.
•    If possible, use a credit card when making purchases over £100, and up to £30,000, as you receive protection under Section 75
SOURCE: TAKE FIVE: 
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Please feel free to share this information with any family, friends, or neighbours that you think it may be able to assist.

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Take Five to Stop Fraud

STOP: Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.
CHALLENGE: Could it be fake? It’s OK to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.
PROTECT: Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud

ALWAYS REMEMBER:
•    Avoid disclosing security details
•    Emails, Phone Calls and Texts may not be authentic
•    Always make direct contact with any organisation by using a genuine phone number
•    Stop and Challenge any unexpected requests
•    Protect others by reporting Fraud and Scams
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If you’ve fallen for a scam, 
report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via actionfraud.police.uk

Scam Text messages can be forwarded to 7726 to help phone providers take early action and block numbers that generate spam on their networks.

Forward Fake Emails received to report@phishing.gov.uk

If you think your bank account or personal banking details have been used fraudulently, then use the short phone number – 159 – to contact the Fraud Prevention Department of most major UK banks.