Shani Perera
Travel News
#cyber travel scams
#travel safety
#travel fraud prevention
#social media security
#digital travel safety
October 16, 2025
A new wave of cyber travel scams is spreading on social media. Criminals are using publicly shared travel posts to set up traps for unsuspecting holidaymakers.
With millions of people posting about their upcoming trips, check-ins, and hotel stays, fraudsters can easily collect personal information. This helps them create fake messages and websites that seem authentic. Experts warn that these scams are becoming more sophisticated and harder to recognize.
How the Scams Work
Fraudsters often track travel-related hashtags, check-in locations, or tagged hotels to find potential victims. Once they identify a target, they use this information to craft messages that look real, such as “outstanding booking payments” or “urgent hotel confirmations.”
Common tactics include:
- Fake booking links that resemble well-known travel websites, fooling users into entering card details.
- Phishing emails or texts that pretend to be from airlines, hotels, or travel agents asking for payment verification.
- Rental property scams that use cloned listings and stolen images to lure travelers into sending deposits for fake accommodations.
- Tech support and “verification” scams that instruct users to follow certain keystrokes, which can install malware or steal credentials.
Why Social Media Is a Goldmine
Every travel update shared online, whether it’s a boarding pass selfie or hotel tag, offers data that scammers can misuse. Sharing too much about travel dates, destinations, or travel companions makes it easy for criminals to create personalized scams.
How Travelers Can Stay Safe
- Avoid sharing travel plans publicly before or during a trip.
- Always double-check web addresses and make sure payment pages are secure.
- Use official websites or verified travel agencies for bookings.
- Contact hotels or airlines directly if you receive suspicious payment requests.
- Never follow unusual verification instructions or download files from unverified sources.
The Bottom Line
As travel becomes more digital, the tools that make sharing experiences easier also expose travelers to new risks. Staying alert, limiting what you share online, and verifying each transaction can help keep your dream holiday from becoming a scammer’s payday.