3 Summer Scams You Need to Know

Summer is on the horizon, and many of us are looking forward to some well-deserved relaxation and fun in the sun. Well, except for scammers—they never take a vacation.

Many scam attempts actually heat up during the summer months when routines change, travel picks up and people tend to let their guards down.

Don’t let scammers spoil your summer! Study up on these common summertime scams:

1. Summer Travel Scams

Dreaming of a long summer vacation or a last-minute getaway? Watch out for phony social media ads and phishing emails, calls or texts that claim to offer rock-bottom prices on airfare, hotels, cruises or vacation packages. If you fall for a scam, your dream vacation could disappear—along with your hard-earned money.

Travel Booking Tips:

• Only book travel through trusted, verified websites.
• Read online reviews before making a decision.
• Use a secure payment method, like a credit card, to book travel plans.
• Beware of any deal that sounds “too good to be true” — it probably is.

2. Vacation Home Rental Scams

Short-term vacation homes and apartment rentals have become a popular option for budget-savvy travelers. However, watch out for fraudsters using phony photos and descriptions to trick you into sending a deposit for a listing that isn’t theirs — or doesn’t exist at all!

Avoid Rental Woes:

• Stick to trusted, reputable vacation rental platforms and apps where the property owners are vetted and verified.
• Never send money outside the platform’s secure payment system.
• Read reviews from previous travelers before you decide to book.

3. Summer Job Scams

Whether you’re a teen or college student looking for a summer job or just picking up extra hours, be careful — scammers are targeting job seekers with phony offers designed to steal your personal and financial information.

When to Be Suspicious:

• The company asks for sensitive information, like your Social Security number, in the initial application process.
• You’re required to pay upfront for “training” or “equipment.” You shouldn’t have to pay to get hired.
• The job offers high pay for little work, and no one will explain what you’re really doing.
• Your new employer will only communicate via text or messaging services.
• The company offers to pay through unconventional methods, like a payment app, gift card or money wire transfer.

Ready for a Scam-Free Summer? We’re With You!

Now that you know about some common summer scams, it’s easy to spot the signs and protect yourself. And, as your caring financial partner, Wright-Patt Credit Union® (WPCU®) is always here to help.

If you do suspect fraud or spot something unusual on your WPCU accounts, call the Member Help Center at (800) 762-0047 right away to get help protecting and securing your accounts. For more helpful fraud tips, tools and resources, visit our Fraud Prevention page.​