Summer is a season for travel, relaxation, and making memories—but it’s also a time when fraudsters become increasingly active. As more travelers search online for flights, hotels, and vacation experiences, scammers look for opportunities to take advantage of busy planning and quick booking decisions.

A little extra awareness can go a long way in protecting your finances and personal information while traveling.

Be Careful When Booking Travel Online

One of the most common travel scams starts with online searches for airfare, hotels, and vacation packages.

Scammers often create fake websites or use paid advertisements that appear to represent trusted travel brands. These ads may lead to fraudulent booking pages, incorrect customer service numbers, or offers that seem too good to be true.

How to protect yourself:

• Avoid clicking sponsored ads when possible
• Visit company websites directly by typing the web address into your browser
• Verify you are booking through official sources
• Double-check contact information before calling

Taking a few extra moments to confirm where you are booking can help prevent costly mistakes.

Watch for Fake Toll Payment Text Messages

Another growing scam targets travelers through text messages claiming there is an unpaid toll balance that requires immediate payment.

These messages often include links or phone numbers designed to collect personal or payment information.

If you receive one of these messages:

• Do not click links or call numbers included in the text
• Avoid entering payment information
• Contact the toll agency directly using a trusted website or official phone number

Scammers often create urgency to pressure quick decisions—pause and verify first.

Research Travel Companies Before You Commit

Whether booking accommodations, tours, or transportation, transparency matters.

If a company cannot clearly explain what is included, provides vague descriptions, or avoids answering questions directly, consider it a warning sign.

Before making a reservation:

• Search for independent reviews
• Look for complaints or unresolved issues
• Confirm cancellation and refund policies
• Verify physical addresses and contact information

A reputable company should be able to provide clear details and documentation.

Pay Attention to How Payment Is Requested

Payment methods can reveal a lot.

Scammers frequently request payment through:

• Wire transfers
• Gift cards
• Payment apps used outside normal checkout processes
• Cryptocurrency

These payment methods can be difficult—or impossible—to recover if fraud occurs.

Whenever possible, choose payment methods that offer stronger consumer protections.

Consider Using a Credit Card for Travel Purchases

When booking travel, using a credit card can provide an additional layer of protection.

Many credit cards offer:

• Fraud monitoring
• Dispute resolution options
• Travel-related protections and benefits
• Enhanced security features

Review your card benefits before traveling so you understand what protections may be available.

Stay Informed and Travel Confidently

Scammers continue to evolve their tactics, but awareness remains one of the strongest tools for prevention.

This summer, take a few extra moments to verify websites, research providers, and use secure payment methods. Small precautions today can help protect your finances and make your travel experience more enjoyable.

If you believe you have encountered a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.