What schemes do online fraudsters use to steal personal data and how to protect yourself
In recent years, online fraud schemes have become more dangerous and invisible than ever. Hackers have learned how to subtly draw out personal data from even the most attentive tourists. They then use the private information to get money and suspicious transfers.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has found that fraud with Booking.com has increased by 580% since last year. According to The Guardian, this resulted in losses of 337,000 USD.
The fraud scheme:
Hackers target specific hotels that use Booking.com and imitate official messages from them in fake emails. They contain malicious links that, when clicked, lead to fake booking pages.
At this stage, fraudsters steal user data, including credit card numbers. Sometimes huge sums are debited from these bank accounts, and the tourist is left without a vacation and money.
How to protect yourself:
- Never click on links in emails, even if they appear to be official.
- Contact the hotel directly to confirm the authenticity of the message.
- Check the URL of the booking site - it must be the real Booking.com, not a fake site that simply has a similar name. Carefully check each letter in the link.
- Do not enter your personal data on suspicious websites.
- In case of suspicion, contact Booking.com support and do not fall for manipulations. If the interlocutor is pushing you, this is the first red flag.