Expert warns over common holiday scams that could cost you HUNDREDS

"They urge holidaymakers to purchase travel insurance as soon as they book a trip to cover themselves for any issues. Tourists are advised to check the policy 'carefully to ensure it covers fraud and cancellations'. Verifying when the cover starts is also important, as it may be from the time of the booking or the start of the trip which could impact protection from scams."

"Another trick to look out for is a travel visa scam, when fraudsters make copies of legitimate visa application websites. Tourists are then tricked into entering payment details and other personal information that the scammers can use to their advantage. Some companies make holidaygoers cough up extortionate fees for doing the application through them. Though this is legal, it isn't necessary and Remitly advises travellers to check the official government website for the country they are entering."

"Remitly experts also advise to take steps to verify the websites used for bookings are legitimate. 'Always check the URL for correct spelling and look for the "https://" prefix and padlock symbol, which indicate a secure site,' they urge. Other things like old photos, spelling errors and outdated information are also tell-tale signs of a scam. Another way to avoid illegitimate companies is to only go by official channels to communicate and pay."

Searches on Google for 'last-minute holidays' rose 207% from January to August 2025 as Brits seek end-of-summer breaks. Action Fraud received 114 reports of passport application fraud since the start of April. Purchase travel insurance immediately after booking and ensure the policy covers fraud and cancellations, and verify when cover begins. Beware travel visa scams that clone official application sites to steal payments and personal data. Avoid unnecessary third-party visa fees by checking the official government website. Verify booking websites by checking URL spelling, the https:// prefix and padlock, and watch for old photos, spelling errors or outdated information. Use official channels to communicate and pay to reduce impersonation risks via email, text or social media.

Read at Mail Online