Beware of travel scams

Thursday, 5 June 2025 09:00

Thinking about a summer holiday? Looking for a last-minute deal? Planning a city break? Travel scams have been prevalent over the past few years, so be careful when booking anything online.

Here’s our top tips to avoid travel scams:

  1. Go directly to your hotel or airline rather than through an online booking service.

  2. Research your online retailers and shop around.

  3. If you have one, use your credit card to book. You’ll get more protection.

  4. Check review sites such as Tripadvisor before you book.

  5. Don’t be rushed into anything.

  6. If not booking directly through the hotel or airline, only pay through the online booking system such as Booking.com or Airbnb.com – never agree to pay a retailer or individual directly online.

  7. If you are concerned, contact the hotel by telephone or contact Booking.com directly.

  8. If you receive a message from someone asking for more money or information, always query it.

  9. Be careful when buying tickets or holiday rentals on social media, check with reputable sites instead.

  10. If it looks too good to be true, it usually is!

If you have been a victim of fraud, you should report it to the States of Jersey Police by calling 612612.

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