Top 5 Holiday Booking Scams

Holidaymakers are increasingly searching online for the best travel deals and booking their summer holidays. Unfortunately, cybercriminals are also busy targeting unsuspecting travellers.

Fraudsters use a variety of tactics, including fake websites, phishing emails, misleading advertising, and scam phone calls. Once a booking is made, the criminals often disappear, leaving victims without holidays or, in severe cases, stranded abroad.

Top Holiday Booking Scams

1. Airline Ticket Scams

Fake airline tickets are increasingly common, especially on social media. Action Fraud reports an increase in phone scams from individuals claiming to be from legitimate travel companies. Fraudsters may even track your online flight searches and offer discounted fares to trick you into paying.

Victims often receive confirmation emails, but the flights are non-existent. To protect yourself, always pay with a credit card, which offers added security. Ensure the travel company is a member of recognised bodies such as ABTA or holds an ATOL licence, which safeguards UK travellers.

2. Fake Websites

Fraudsters increasingly clone legitimate travel websites. Look out for subtle changes in web addresses, spelling mistakes, poor grammar, or low-quality images. Before booking, research the company, read reviews, and check they are part of a recognised trade association with financial protection.

3. Fake Accommodation Listings

Fake holiday rentals use enticing images of luxury properties to lure victims. Some images may even be stolen from real listings. Fraudsters often ask for bank transfers instead of credit card payments. Always ensure payment methods are secure, and confirm you receive proper booking documentation.

4. Unsecured Wi-Fi

Using public Wi-Fi in airports, hotels, or cafes can expose your personal information. Cybercriminals set up fake networks to capture sensitive data such as passwords or payment details. To stay safe:

• Ensure Wi-Fi is secure before connecting
• Use a VPN to encrypt your data
• Disconnect immediately if no password is requested
• Turn off file sharing
• Enable your firewall
• Avoid financial transactions or sharing personal information on public Wi-Fi

5. Fake Event Tickets

Festival season often sees a surge in fake event tickets. Always buy tickets from official sources or secure payment platforms like PayPal, and ensure the site uses encryption (https).

Learn More About MetaCompliance’s Cybersecurity Solutions

For further insights, read our Holiday Risk Report: Why Cybercrime Spikes in December and What Business Leaders Must Do to understand seasonal cybercrime risks and how to safeguard your organisation.

MetaCompliance specialises in Cyber Security awareness training, helping organisations tackle threats such as holiday booking scams. Our Human Risk Management Platform provides centralised tools to strengthen security awareness and reduce human‑linked vulnerabilities, including:

• Automated Security Awareness – keep employees alert and informed through targeted training.
• Advanced Phishing Simulations – simulate real-world attacks to test and improve user behaviour.
• Risk Intelligence & Analytics – gain actionable insights into organisational vulnerabilities and human risk trends.
• Compliance Management – ensure adherence to regulations and maintain a robust governance framework.

If you’re interested in a personalised demo, contact us here to see how we can strengthen your organisation’s cyber security awareness.