Travel and vacation

Scam involving vacation rentals

One of the most common travel and vacation scams is similar to a rental scam. A con artist will post a listing for a vacation rental that either doesn't exist or doesn't look as pictured, pressure you into acting quickly, and then ask you to submit a deposit before vanishing into the night with your money (and the beach house of your dreams).
Another common version preys on those looking to sell their timeshares. A real estate broker or agent, who claims to specialize in timeshare resales, will call claiming to have dozens of potential buyers, and offer to expedite the selling process if only you'll pay a small upfront fee.

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AI Generated Recommendations

  • Research Listings and Agencies Carefully
    When booking a vacation rental, only use trusted travel websites and well-reviewed platforms. Avoid listings that seem too good to be true. Search online for reviews of the rental property or company to ensure legitimacy.

  • Never Rush into a Deal
    Scammers often pressure you to act quickly to secure a rental or sell your timeshare. Always take the time to verify the offer. Legitimate businesses will not require you to decide on the spot.

  • Use Secure Payment Methods
    Avoid paying via wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or prepaid cards. Instead, use credit cards, which offer fraud protection, or verified payment systems on reputable platforms.

  • Confirm Rental Details Directly
    If a rental seems suspicious, contact the property owner or manager directly using the phone number listed on official websites. Do not rely solely on email or private messages.

  • Verify Timeshare Resale Agents
    For timeshare resales, research the broker’s credentials and ensure they are licensed. Check for reviews and complaints on consumer protection sites or contact the timeshare company directly to verify if the resale offer is legitimate.

  • Get Everything in Writing
    Make sure you receive written confirmation of reservations, policies, and agreements. If the other party refuses to provide documentation, treat it as a red flag.

  • Report Suspicious Activity
    If you suspect you’ve encountered a travel scam, report it to consumer protection agencies. This helps others avoid falling victim to similar schemes.