As summer rolls around, vacation travel becomes more common, and if you’re thinking of squeezing in some last-minute plans, there’s a new scam making the rounds that you need to know about. With the rising costs of everything from food to flights, it’s natural to search online for the best travel deals to keep your budget in check. Unfortunately, cybercriminals are taking advantage of this by deploying an AI-generated phishing email scam that could leave you with more than just vacation expenses. According to Booking.com, there has been an alarming 500% to 900% increase in travel-related scams in the last 18 months, as cybercriminals leverage this sophisticated tactic.
So, how are these scams being carried out? While phishing emails are not a new threat, AI tools like ChatGPT have made it easier for scammers to create highly convincing, professional-looking emails that are more likely to deceive recipients. In the past, these emails were often littered with obvious mistakes like spelling and grammar errors. Today, AI allows cybercriminals to produce dozens of legitimate-seeming emails that often evade both software filters and human scrutiny.
Here’s how the scam typically works:
Scammers exploit legitimate platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb.com, where users can list properties for short-term rentals. They send out emails promoting unbelievable rates or urgent, limited-time deals on properties that don’t exist. After receiving payment, the scammers either disappear with the money, leaving the traveler without a place to stay, or continue sending follow-up emails to extract additional "fees" or "charges" before vanishing completely.
To be clear, these types of vacation scams aren’t new, but with AI making phishing emails more convincing, more people are falling victim.
What steps can you take to protect yourself?
To avoid getting caught by these scams, travelers should consider the following precautions:
- Enable two-factor or multifactor authentication where available. Requiring a confirmation code sent to your phone whenever you log in can help prevent unauthorized access and phishing attacks.
- Avoid clicking on links in emails. If you receive an email offering an incredible deal, it’s safer to go directly to the website and search for the promotion yourself. If the deal isn’t listed, you may have just avoided a scam.
- Verify contact information and read reviews before booking any property online. If other verified users have stayed there, it’s less likely to be a scam.
- Use credit cards for online transactions. Debit cards linked directly to your bank account pose a higher risk if compromised, and recovering lost funds can be difficult. Credit cards, on the other hand, offer an extra layer of protection.
The most important thing is to stay alert. Carefully assess every email offer you receive and adhere to cybersecurity best practices. While some security software can catch scam emails, it’s crucial to remain cautious and watch for any red flags.
While personal scams can spoil a vacation, a breach in your business can jeopardize your livelihood and that of your family. To safeguard your network, reach out to us at 201-730-2468 or click here to schedule a FREE 10-minute consultation with us. We’ll help you develop a protection plan tailored to your needs. Enjoy your well-earned summer break, and don’t forget to stay cybersmart!
