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WEEKLY FRAUD UPDATE FROM WEST MERCIA POLICE - ECONOMIC CRIME UNIT - 11/03/2025

 

HOLIDAY FRAUDS

 

Although we highlighted Holiday Fraud earlier this year, reports of people being defrauded by this type of fraud continue to appear, so this is a timely reminder.

Whilst the sale of airline tickets is one of the more common types of holiday frauds, “too good to be true” offers for caravan or motorhome listings, villa rentals and holiday lets, are also amongst the variety of methods criminals use to trick the public into handing over their money and personal information.

The commonest age group targeted is 30 – 49 years, and often with young families. If they pay by bank transfer or cash,  there is very often no means of gaining repayment of that money.

Where possible, use a credit card when making purchases over £100, and up to £30,000, as you receive protection under Section 75 rules.

 

Always remember

 

  • Do your research before making any purchases by reading more than one review of the site or person you are purchasing from. Before booking accommodation ask what checks the agent makes on both the landlord and advertised property. 

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  • Verify that the address exists through web searches and online maps.

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  • Where possible, book directly with an established hotel or through a reputable travel company/agent that is a member of a trade body such as ABTA or ATOL. 

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  • If you do decide to book independently, establish if you’re dealing with the property owner or a letting agent or via the local tourist information desk.

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  • Ensure you read the terms and conditions before making any bookings to confirm exactly what you are being sold. Double-check both your travel and accommodation information, particularly if there is a long gap between making the booking and arrival.

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  • Always use the secure payment options recommended by reputable online travel providers

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  • Always access the website you are purchasing from by typing it into your web browser and be wary of clicking on links in unsolicited emails. The website should use the padlock symbol to indicate that the site is secure.

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  • Don’t click on links or attachments in social media posts or emails.

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  • Question uninvited approaches and contact organisations directly to confirm requests using a known email or phone number. Never be rushed into doing a deal.

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  • Only give out your personal or financial information to services you have consented to, and are expecting to be contacted by

    • Please feel free to share these messages with any vulnerable friends, relatives or neighbours

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    If you’ve fallen for fraud

     

    Report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via actionfraud.police.uk

     

    Fake Text messages can be forwarded to 7726 to help phone providers take early action and block numbers that generate spam on their networks. You can also report fraudulent mobile calls by texting 7726 with the word “Call” followed by the fraudster’s phone number.

     

    Forward Fake Emails received to report@phishing.gov.uk

     

    If you think your bank account or personal banking details have been used fraudulently, then use the short phone number - 159 - to contact the Fraud Prevention Department of most major UK banks.

     

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    Message Sent By
    Michael Barbour
    (Police, PSV, Economic Crime Unit – Fraud Protect’)
    Neighbourhood Alert Cyber Essentials