Fake Travel Agents & Online Scams: Your 2025 Guide To Safe Travel Planning

There are many instances in which travellers are deceived by fraudulent travel agents. The travel and tourism sector remains one of the most vulnerable to scams, with incidents rising rapidly—made worse by the use of AI to create convincing fake websites, job offers, and travel packages. Recent events highlight how widespread and damaging these scams have become. In October, youth from several villages in Punjab were left stranded in Kazakhstan after allegedly being duped by an agent who promised high-paying jobs and better work opportunities.Earlier, in January, a tour operator reportedly cheated people of 14 lakh rupees by offering fake tickets, lodging, and boarding for the Haj and Umrah pilgrimages. More recently, a youth in Kapurthala ended his life after being defrauded of 25 lakh rupees by travel agents. Unfortunately, these are just a few examples among many similar travel scam cases emerging across the country.Although some of these incidents extend beyond traditional travel and tourism, they underscore a broader issue: travel-related fraud is a widespread global threat. The travel and leisure sector consistently ranks among the top industries with the highest number of suspected fraud attempts. To avoid falling victim to fraudulent travel agents, here are some essential precautions to keep in mind:Do’s1. Do your researchBefore travelling, research your destination thoroughly, including common local scams, cultural norms, local regulations, and safe transport options. Understanding the environment helps you identify red flags early.2. Verify everything through official channelsConfirm the legitimacy of travel agents, tour operators, hotels, and listings through their official websites or verified contact details. Cross-check booking information directly with airlines, hotels, or service providers.3. Secure your documentsKeep digital copies of essential documents such as your passport, ID, visas, insurance, and tickets. Store them securely on your phone or in cloud storage, separate from your physical originals.4. Use secure connectionsWhen using public Wi-Fi, connect through a VPN to protect your data. Avoid conducting sensitive transactions online unless you are on a secure, encrypted network.5. Trust your instinctIf something feels unusual, pressured, or too good to be true, walk away. Scammers often rely on urgency and confusion.6. Maintain control of personal spaceDo not allow strangers to handle your belongings, touch you, or tie items like bracelets or strings onto you. These tactics are commonly used to coerce payment.7. Share your travel plansProvide a trusted friend or family member with your itinerary. Check in with them regularly so they are aware of your movements.8. Seek official informationWhen in doubt, consult official tourism boards, hotel concierges, or embassy advisories. They can guide you towards safe operators and away from known scam areas.9. Report suspicious activityIf you encounter dubious offers or behaviour, report it to the travel platform, social media site, your hotel, or local authorities. This helps protect others from similar scams.Don’ts1. Do not pay upfront to unknown sourcesAvoid making advance payments for bookings, job offers, or visa processing to unverified vendors. Scammers frequently demand upfront fees and then disappear.2. Do not share personal informationNever give personal, financial, or passport details in response to unsolicited calls, emails, or messages. Legitimate organisations will not ask for sensitive information in this manner.3. Do not click suspicious linksAvoid opening links or downloading attachments from unknown or unexpected emails, messages, or QR codes. These may lead to phishing sites or install malware.4. Do not hand over original documentsKeep your passport and ID in your possession at all times. Do not give them to unverified individuals or agents claiming they need them for processing.5. Do not use unsecured websites or networksAvoid entering passwords or payment details on websites that do not have “https” encryption. Be especially cautious when using public Wi-Fi.6. Do not accept free gifts from strangersItems presented as free, such as bracelets or flowers, often come with a demand for payment. Politely decline and walk away.7. Do not allow strangers to interfere with your transport arrangementsAt tourist locations, individuals may try to stop your taxi or redirect your ride, claiming to offer better options. These are often scams designed to mislead or overcharge travellers.Staying vigilant and informed is the most effective way to protect yourself from travel fraud. By taking the time to verify information, safeguarding your documents and data, and trusting your instincts when something feels wrong, you greatly reduce the chances of falling victim to a scam. As fraudsters continue to adopt new tactics, especially online, adopting these precautions ensures a safer, more secure travel experience wherever you go.FAQsHow do I check if a travel agent or website is genuine?Verify details on the company’s official site, read independent reviews, and confirm bookings directly with airlines or hotels.What should I do if I realise I’ve been scammed?Stop contact, gather evidence, and report it to the authorities, your bank, and the platform involved.Are social media travel deals safe?Not always. Many scams run through ads. Always verify the company before paying.What are common signs of a travel scam?Unrealistically low prices, pressure to pay quickly, unverified payment methods, and inconsistent information.How can I keep my personal data safe while travelling?Use secure networks or a VPN, avoid sharing sensitive details on public Wi-Fi, and store digital copies of your documents securely.Travelling To India For The First Time? Here Are Some Handy Tips To Avoid Scams