Protect Your Plans from Travel Scams

Summer is right around the corner, and many people are planning vacations, road trips and cruises and getaways. 

Unfortunately, scammers are busy making plans, too. From phony vacation rentals to fake travel agencies and disappearing discounts, criminals are looking to cash in on unsuspecting travelers. 

Don’t let fraudsters strike this summer. Before you book, be aware of these common scams: 

Fake Vacation Rentals

Scammers are creating phony vacation listings that look just like real rental properties. They often steal photos from real listings or create AI-generated images and offer the rental at a deeply discounted rate to lure victims in. 

When you try to book, you might be prompted to use an unusual payment method. In reality, the rental may not be what it seems or might not exist at all! 

Quick tips: 

• Only book through trusted, verified platforms
• Never send payment through wire transfer, cryptocurrency, gift cards or third-party apps outside the booking platform
• Be suspicious of extremely low prices
• Do some research, including reading reviews

Deceptive Travel Discounts 

Everyone loves a great deal, and scammers know it. Beware of fraudsters posing as “travel agents” offering luxury trips and cruises at big discounts or claiming you’ve “won” a free vacation that you never entered to win in the first place. If a deal pressures you to act fast or use an unusual payment method, it’s a red flag. 

Quick tips: 

• Remember, you can’t win a sweepstakes you didn’t enter 
• Research reputable travel agents and read reviews
• Don’t click links from unexpected emails or texts. Book directly through the official cruise line or a verified travel agent

Tricky Timeshare Scams

Vacation timeshare scams can take many forms. It could be a high-pressure salesperson using “bait-and-switch” tactics to sell you something that’s not what it seems. Or, if you currently own a timeshare, beware of shady companies that claim to help people sell, rent or cancel a timeshare in exchange for a large upfront “legal” fee.

Quick tips: 

• Don’t let anyone pressure you to make a decision on the spot 
• Read contracts carefully before signing 
• Beware of anyone who claims they can help you “get out” of a timeshare deal for a large upfront fee

Stay Safe This Summer

Planning a vacation should be fun, not stressful. If you’re feeling rushed or pressured to make a travel decision, slow down and verify the details. A little extra time to research can save you from a costly mistake or a disappointing vacation. 

Remember: WPCU will NEVER text, call or email you asking for your password, PIN or personal/account information. 

If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud, call WPCU’s Member Help Center immediately at (800) 762-0047 or visit your nearest Member Center. We can help you protect and secure your accounts.