Scammers aren’t just after your bank account. These unscrupulous criminals are targeting travelers as well — and according to Fodor’s Travel, they’re using artificial intelligence (AI) to do their dirty work. A report by the cybersecurity company McAfee found that AI-powered travel scams racked up an estimated $13 billion in losses last year, with nearly $1,000 lost per victim.
Experts say AI has transformed phishing into a sophisticated, automated industry. Scammers are now using it to build websites and generate content to trick travelers. Here are a few tips from the experts at Fodor’s on how to protect yourself when planning a vacation:
- Book only through official websites that you access directly. Verify contact details via Google Maps or trusted review platforms, use a credit card for fraud protection, and be wary of time-limited deals that discourage verification.
- Never click customer-support links in search results or messages, and never click links or buttons in unsolicited emails. Verify bookings by logging onto official travel sites directly and examining sender addresses for subtle errors.
- Watch out for fake reviews. Look for mixed reviews, imperfect details, and reviewer histories. Be skeptical of uniformly glowing praise posted in clusters. When travel planning, check author credentials, spot-check facts, and stick with established guidebook publishers and regional experts.
- Verify destinations through multiple independent sources — maps, tourism boards, reputable guidebooks, and established booking platforms. Never wire money or pre-pay for unverified trips.
Have you ever fallen victim to a travel scam? Message The Seniors Trust on Facebook or X (formerly known as Twitter) and let us know what you do to make sure your bookings are on the up-and-up.
