OHIO — The holidays are coming up quickly, and some Ohioans may be stressing about booking flights, hotels or more.
The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Financial Institutions is warning residents to be wary of travel-related scams, which it says continues to rise.
Last year, Ohioans reported 1,289 cases of vacation fraud, which resulted in $3.44 million in total losses, according to the Federal Trade Commission.
So far in 2026, there’s been 777 reports of vacation-related scams, totaling $1.54 million in losses.
The Division’s Office of Consumer Affairs has also been documenting an increase of holiday-related scam reports over the last few years, including those targeting traveling for the holidays.
Around the holidays, there’s a lot of distractions, which can make it easier for scammers.
“Holiday travel planning is the perfect environment for scammers, especially when consumers feel pressured to book quickly or believe they’ve found an unusually good deal,” Division Interim Superintendent Ingrid White. “Staying aware of common tactics can help protect you and your hard-earned money, ensuring your holiday season stays stress-free.”
Common Travel Scams
- “The arrival trap: Scammers may pose as airport or transportation personnel and steer travelers toward taxis, shuttles, or rideshares that charge inflated fares or collect payment through unsafe methods.
- Guest desk deception: Travelers may receive calls from someone claiming to be from the hotel’s front desk requesting to “verify” credit card information. Once provided, scammers use the details to make fraudulent purchases.
- ‘Free’ vacation offers: Fraudulent vacation promotions often come with hidden fees and taxes. Legitimate companies won’t require payment in order to receive free prizes.
- AI or robocall vacation deals: Unsolicited calls, sometimes using AI‑generated voices, pitch limited-time travel deals or deep discounts. These calls are frequently illegal and commonly associated with scams.
- Fake travel documents: Be wary of websites that charge for services such as visas or international driving permits that are available through legitimate government channels.
- Vacation rental fraud: Scammers create convincing fake rental listings using real photos and descriptions. After payment is sent, the listing disappears, leaving travelers stranded at a property that doesn’t exist or isn’t actually available.
- Charter flight scams: Ads may promote private or semi‑private charter flights at unusually low prices. After travelers pay, the operation vanishes, offering no flight, no refund, and no recourse.”
How to protect yourself
Before traveling, make sure to research rental listings and verify any travel offerings. The division warns Ohioans to avoid travel packages that include wire transfers, gift cards or cyrptocurrency.
If possible, use a credit card for added security and ask about cancellation policies up front.
Also, it’s important to be aware of high-pressure sales tactics. Only rely on reputable travel booking platforms.
Additionally, review financial statements for any unauthorized changes. If there’s a suspected scam, report it to local authorities or other agencies such as the FTC or Better Business Bureau.
Source: spectrumnews1.com
