Holidaymakers warned over online fraud
16/07/2010
Holidaymakers looking to escape to the sun by booking a bargain dream holiday online have been warned to take care it doesn't turn into a nightmare.
A survey by Government-backed GetSafeOnline.org and travel organisation Abta has found that almost a third (30%) of travellers who book their breaks on the internet fail to confirm that the people they are handing over their money to are authentic travel firms.
An industry spokesman said: "Most people opt for travel insurance to make sure their trip isn't ruined by unforeseen circumstances, but they should also show the same level of care to protect themselves when choosing a holiday online."
In addition, the research highlighted that 22% of the 1,000 adults polled do not check if their web page is secure when booking - meaning their bank details could be at risk.
And 36% say they do not track and check the payments in their bank or credit card statements after making a booking.
The survey also found that 22% say they have been approached with holiday deals or villa rentals via unsolicited emails, phones calls or text messages from individuals or organisations they do not know.
Tony Neate, managing director of GetSafeOnline.org, said: "When we've been working hard the rest of the year, for most people, making sure we have a great summer holiday is really important.
"Fraudsters recognise this and play on people's desires - we get caught up in the excitement of a 'bargain dream holiday' and cautiousness goes out the window."
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