A New Travel Scam Is Targeting Travelers With Fake Texts-Here's How to Spot It

""This process is quick and completely safe-no payment will be charged," the message allegedly reads, according to the Reddit post, adding, "If we don't receive verification within 24 hours, the system may automatically cancel your booking-so it's best to complete it soon."The false message apparently contains specific details like a traveler's confirmation number, reservation dates, and the hotel's information, according to the post."

"In general, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) discourages travelers from clicking on links from suspicious text messages, especially if they weren't expecting to receive the message and it requests personal or financial information. "If you think the message might be real, contact the company using a phone number or website you know is real. Not the information in the text message," the FTC wrote in its advice, adding, "Legitimate companies won't ask for information about your account by text.""

Sophisticated SMS scams are targeting travelers by claiming additional payment or verification is required to keep bookings. Messages promise no immediate charge while urging verification within 24 hours or threatening automatic cancellation. Scams often include specific reservation details such as confirmation numbers, dates, and hotel information to appear legitimate. Victims are advised not to reply to suspicious messages and to contact the hotel or booking company directly using known phone numbers or websites. The FTC warns against clicking links in unexpected messages and notes legitimate companies will not request account information via SMS. Reported travel scams increased over 12 percent in early 2024.

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