"RED FLAGS" ON VACATION Scams
Be alert to"red flags" that may signal fraudulent vacation promotions:
High pressured tactics used my salespeople such as:
* demanding your credit card information before explaining all
the conditions of the offer;
* requesting that you identify yourself by your credit card
number (sign of possible misuse of you card);
* refusing to provide all the information about the total cost
of a vacation or travel offer.
Post card or fax promotional mailings that require you to pay a
fee or to purchase membership in a travel club, in order to claim a
vacation or travel prize.
Low rates on air travel that require you to purchase an additional
ticket for a companion.
Offers by companies attempting to subvert U.S. Postal authorities
by requiring a messenger or courier to deliver the travel package to
you in exchange for you payment.
How to Protect yourself
* Avoid falling prey to a travel or vacation scam, heed the
following advice:
* Be wary of "great deals" and low-priced offers.
* Be suspicious of companies that require you to wait at least 60
days before taking your trip.
* Ask detailed questions.
* Get all information in writing before you agree to buy.
* Don't send money by messenger or overnight mail.
* Don't give out your bank information or your credit card number
over the phone unless you have confidence in the company you are
dealing with.
* Check out the company before you buy.
* Don't be pressured into buying.
* If you are in doubt, just say "NO!"