ABTA Warns Holidaymakers to Stay Safe Online
Travel association ABTA has joined forces with the UK government to warn holidaymakers against cowboy operators online, according to a report from TravelMole.
The GetSafeOnline.org initiative has revealed that a third of internet users booking cheap holidays to popular destinations such as Spain or Greece fail to check whether the company in question is legitimate before handing over credit card details. People should never pay cash upfront by wire transfer and should always check that contact details – such as a telephone number or email address – are the real thing before making payment for independently booked holiday cottages or villas.
When booking cheap flights online, or making reservations for cheap hotels, holidaymakers should always ensure that their details are secure and they are not handing over hard-earned cash to fly-by-night operators, the initiative said. It also warned that 20 per cent of computer users do not check that their web page is secure when entering payment details.
UK holidaymakers are enthusiastic online bookers, often hunting down the cheapest flights and best cheap hotel deals on the web. However, they should take the precaution of ensuring that the provider is part of a reputable trade organisation.
GetSafeOnline.org is a joint initiative between the Government, the Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) and various sponsors from the technology, communication, retail and finance sectors.
ABTA head of financial services Mike Monk commented: "Booking your holiday online is a great way of finding unique locations and experiences, as well as often being faster, more convenient and offering value for money. However, with the online travel industry worth many millions each year, it’s inevitable that fraudsters will follow the money trail."
"However, by being aware of the risks, knowing the ‘tell-tale’ signs to look out for and taking some basic prevention measures, there’s no reason why holidaymakers cannot enjoy the benefits of booking online."
Travel Industry News posted by 
on 06 July 2010
