Traveling in 2025 offers exciting adventures, but it also exposes tourists to a growing number of sophisticated scams. From AI-generated fake booking sites to dangerous drugging schemes, here’s what you need to know to stay safe on your travels.
1. AI-Generated Fake Booking Sites
Scammers are leveraging artificial intelligence to create convincing counterfeit websites for flights, accommodations, and tours. These sites often mimic legitimate platforms, luring travelers with deals that seem too good to be true. Once payment is made, victims receive fake confirmations or nothing at all.
How to Avoid:
- Always verify the website’s URL and ensure it uses secure connections (look for “https”).
- Book directly through official airline or hotel websites, or reputable travel agencies.
- Be skeptical of unsolicited offers received via email or social media.
2. Romance Investment Scams
Originating from Southeast Asia, romance investment scams involve fraudsters building fake romantic relationships with victims online. Once trust is established, they persuade victims to invest in fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes, leading to significant financial losses.
3. “Goodnight Cinderella” Drugging Scheme
In Brazil, particularly in Rio de Janeiro, a scam known as “Goodnight Cinderella” has emerged. Gangs, often comprising glamorous women, lure unsuspecting tourists into bars or clubs and spike their drinks with powerful sedatives. Once incapacitated, victims are robbed of valuables, including phones, money, and passports.
How to Avoid:
- Never leave drinks unattended.
- Avoid bringing strangers to accommodations.
- Always inform friends of your whereabouts.
4. Online Booking Scams Targeting Pilgrims and Tourists
In India, the Ministry of Home Affairs’ Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) issued a nationwide alert about online booking frauds, especially those targeting religious pilgrims and tourists. Scammers create fake websites and social media pages offering services like helicopter bookings, hotel accommodations, and cab services. Victims often realize they’ve been duped only after making payments and finding the contact numbers unreachable.
How to Avoid:
- Book accommodations and services through official tourism portals or verified platforms.
- Cross-check hotel information.
- Avoid paying full amounts in advance.
5. Fake Tour Guides and Street Sellers
In popular tourist hotspots, unlicensed guides offer “discounted” excursions or street sellers push counterfeit tickets, often leaving travelers stranded or scammed.
How to Avoid:
- Use official tour operators or guides with proper credentials.
- Be cautious of unsolicited offers from street vendors.
- Verify the authenticity of tickets before purchasing.
6. Airport and Hotel Wi-Fi Honeypots
Cybercriminals set up fake “Free Wi-Fi” networks in airports, cafes, or hotels. Once connected, a traveler’s data, emails, banking logins, and even boarding passes can be intercepted.
How to Avoid:
- Avoid connecting to unsecured Wi-Fi networks.
- Use a virtual private network (VPN) when accessing public Wi-Fi.
- Turn off Wi-Fi when not in use.
7. Taxi and Ride-Hailing Cons
Classic scams persist, including “long-route driving” to inflate fares or rigged card readers that overcharge passengers. Tourists in unfamiliar cities are prime targets.
How to Avoid:
- Use reputable ride-hailing apps.
- Agree on fares before starting the journey.
- Keep track of the route using a map.
8. Fake Airline Customer Service Numbers
Fraudsters set up websites or Google ads with counterfeit airline numbers. When travelers call to change or cancel flights, they’re tricked into handing over personal or payment information.
How to Avoid:
- Always use official airline websites or verified customer service numbers.
- Be cautious of unsolicited calls or messages claiming to be from airlines.
Final Tips to Stay Safe
- Research: Before booking, research common scams in your destination.
- Secure Devices: Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication on your devices.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of travel advisories and warnings from official sources.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it’s better to err on the side of caution.