These are the top scams travellers should be aware of
According to the Daily Mail and the study, these scams range from dodgy taxis or fake booking sites.
Here's what to look out for when travelling abroad this year…
Topping the list are overpriced taxi fares, with nearly a third (32%) of travellers reporting they've been overcharged. The average loss per trip is around £17 or R400. The best way to avoid this? Book your ride in advance, preferably through your hotel or a trusted ride-hailing app, and agree on the fare before setting off.
Coming in second place are street sellers who claim items are free, until they demand payment once you accept. Others sell counterfeit goods advertised as genuine leather, silk, or other luxury materials. Around 20% of travellers fall for this, the study found, losing an average of £17.39 or R410 each time. The rule of thumb? If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Restaurants abroad have been known to inflate final bills, adding hidden charges or outright overpricing items. Almost one in five (18%) travellers surveyed say they've been hit with an inflated bill. A quarter contested it and paid less, but over half paid in full, losing an average of £22.58 or R530 per incident. Always check the bill carefully and don't hesitate to question suspicious charges.
Online booking fraud is a growing problem. Around 12% of holidaymakers admit to falling victim to fake accommodation or travel websites, losing an average of £113.30 or R2 700 each time. Always double-check the website URL, read reviews, and use secure payment methods.
5. Phishing emails pretending to be hotels
Phishing scams rank fifth, with 11% of travellers clicking on fake emails designed to steal money or personal information. Typically, scammers pose as hotels and request upfront payments. Victims lose an average of £75 or R1 800. When in doubt, contact the hotel directly via official channels before paying.
Lastly, money exchange scams remain a risk. Tourists who use unofficial exchange services or unverified ATMs can be short-changed, offered terrible rates, or even have their cards skimmed. About 10% of travellers admitted falling victim, losing an average of £28 or R680.
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