Scam Watch Pilipinas flags top 4 travel scams as airfare rises ahead of Holy Week travel rush

Scam Watch Pilipinas warned that rising global oil prices driven by escalating tensions in the Middle East are pushing airfare higher, creating a surge in travel-related scams targeting Filipinos searching for cheaper options ahead of the Holy Week travel rush.

The group identified the top four travel scams now circulating more aggressively:

First, fake accommodation schemes involve villas, apartments, or hotel rooms advertised at unusually low prices that turn out to be nonexistent upon arrival despite advance payment. Travelers are advised to book only through verified platforms, check real reviews, contact the hotel directly before paying, and transact using official travel apps instead of website-based URLs.

Second, fake Wi-Fi hotspots in airports, hotels, and tourist areas are used by cybercriminals to steal personal and banking information from unsuspecting travelers. The public is urged to avoid sensitive transactions on public Wi-Fi, use a VPN, and verify network names with staff.

Third, too-good-to-be-true travel deals sent via email, SMS, or social media offer heavily discounted flights and packages that disappear once payment is made. Consumers should verify directly with airlines or hotels, avoid random links and messages, research providers before booking, and use official travel apps when transacting.

Fourth, cheap airline tickets sold on social media by unauthorized individuals or fake agents pressure victims into immediate transactions outside official airline channels. Travelers are reminded to buy only from official airline channels, avoid individual sellers on social media, watch out for urgency tactics, and use official airline or travel apps for bookings.

“Scammers thrive in moments like this. When airfare goes up, people naturally look for cheaper alternatives, and that’s exactly where fraudsters step in,” said Jocel de Guzman, co-founder of Scam Watch Pilipinas.

“These scams are designed to create urgency and lower your guard. If you’re being rushed to pay or the price is far below market, that’s already a red flag,” he added.

Scam Watch Pilipinas urged the public to adopt its #KontraScamAttitude as a practical defense against fraud: Magdamot (Be Stingy) by avoiding rushed payments and being cautious with money, Magduda (Doubt) by verifying deals directly with airlines, hotels, or legitimate platforms, Mang-isnab (Ignore) by ignoring suspicious messages, links, and unsolicited offers, and Magsumbong sa 1326 (Report to 1326) by reporting scams through the national anti-scam hotline.

“Awareness is our strongest defense. As travel costs rise, verification and vigilance become even more critical,” de Guzman said.

Scam Watch Pilipinas reminded travelers that while global conditions may affect prices, legitimate deals will always come from verified and official channels, not from pressure-driven offers on social media or messaging platforms.

(The Scam Watch Pilipinas and TechWatch PH are both powered by Truth360 Inc.)

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