Cyber crimes by so called travel agencies are on the rise. People travelling cross boarders often fall prey to these scams ending up losing their money and holiday pleasures, as mostly they learn that they have been duped only once they reach the destination.

Photo credit: www.small-tips.info

So how does one avoid being duped?  Here are some signs to watch out for:

Rental Property: Travelers should always avoid renting any property that seems suspicious, makes them uncomfortable or seems too good to be true. Common sense may be the best resource protecting travelers from booking scams. If the property shows any warning signs of a booking scam, travelers should review the offer carefully and verify as much of the property's information as possible before booking. Potential renters should never send cash or a wire transfer  when booking. Such payment methods are a common strategy of scam artists, and the loss of cash leaves scam victims with little legal recourse. A licensed travel agent or trustworthy rental company can help guide travelers and prevent a travel booking disaster.

These are some of the signs that may come up if you’re being scammed - We have no record of your booking - This happens when a third-party site claims to have booked travel and takes a consumer’s money in payment for that, but the hotel or airline has no record of them having done this. While this is rare (and usually illegal) it’s happening more often.

Always book with a reputable company whose name you’ve heard of, or that comes recommended to you from friends and family. Ask questions about them.

Always check the company’s refund policy if you cancel your trip or change your trip. Read their terms and conditions and if they don’t have these, be aware.

Always make sure you have details of your trip, your flights, your hotels, etc., and confirm and reconfirm with the hotels or airlines if you are even slightly unsure.

Check the company’s website - make sure it has a contact number and call them.  They should also have a place of business and an e-mail to contact them.  If none of this information is on the site, avoid it.

Check the Domain Name in Google - it it is a real site, there should be links to that website from other websites. 

Ask for references and ask them to let you contact their previous clients.  If they refuse, then you know something is fishy.