As travellers, it is easy to think that we are smart enough to avoid getting ripped off. But, the truth is, it happens to the best of us. From getting ridiculously overcharged on cab rides to unknowingly revealing credit card information, travel scams exist the world over.
While it is nearly impossible to know when you will be scammed, it is important to know what kind of scams exist, and what to do should the situation arise.
Here are some of the most common international travel scams:
Bogus travel agents
The convenience of booking an entire travel itinerary online can be appealing, but prospective travellers are warned about rogue travel agents that look like legitimate entities. To avoid being scammed and losing thousands of rands, learn ways in which you can identify bogus travel agents. The first thing that should raise your suspicions is a travel package that seems too good to be true.
Never pay for anything unless you are really certain you are dealing with a reputable firm. Fake agents create sites that look real and ask customers to fill in their details including credit card details. Once you have given them your credit card details they can simply deduct money in exchange for a non-existent overseas trip. Upon enquiring you will discover that the website was set up to cheat unsuspecting travellers.
Currency short-change
Familiarise yourself with the currency of the country you are visiting to ensure that when you make cash purchases you get the right change. Some unscrupulous vendors take advantage of foreign travellers by claiming you have underpaid them, this is a ploy to confuse and get more money out of you simply because you are not familiar with the local currency. Make sure you understand the currency so that you are able to count the change that’s handed to you.
Counterfeit entertainment tickets
When travelling for leisure, entertainment is top of mind, but be warned! Never buy tickets to an event such as a music show or soccer match from a stranger on the streets, while the deal may seem too good to ignore, it’s probably a scam. The aim is to dupe you into believing you are getting a bargain when in fact you are being scammed. If there’s an event you would like to attend, purchase your tickets from a reputable outlet.
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