As the fall season approaches, Attorney General Todd Rokita is cautioning Hoosiers to stay vigilant and be on guard against travel scams, especially during fall break trips.
Scammers often target families planning vacations during this time of the year, and Rokita is offering valuable tips to help Hoosiers avoid falling victim to common travel-related scams:
Exercise Caution with Unfamiliar Companies: When booking your trip, be particularly wary of dealing with unfamiliar travel companies. Prior to making any commitments, check the Better Business Bureau ratings and conduct online research to identify any allegations of fraudulent activity.
Read Contracts Thoroughly: Before signing any contracts, carefully read the fine print. Contracts often contain critical information about the conditions under which the operator can modify or cancel the trip, as well as the associated rules and penalties for cancellations.
Prefer Credit Card Payments: Opt for credit card payments over cash or checks when settling your travel expenses. Credit cards provide you with added protection in comparison to other payment methods.
Exercise Social Media Caution: While sharing your travel experiences on social media can be tempting, use good judgment. Consider adjusting your online privacy settings during your trip to safeguard your personal information.
Secure Your Valuables: Keep your valuable possessions, including personal information, locked in your trunk or a hotel safe to prevent theft or loss.
If you believe you’ve fallen victim to a travel scam, take action by filing a complaint at indianaconsumer.com with Attorney General Rokita’s office. Remember, staying informed and exercising caution can go a long way in protecting yourself and your family from fraudulent schemes during your fall break travels.
