Summer is peak season for travel – and it’s also prime time for travel scams. Whether you’re heading to a conference, meeting with clients, or arranging travel on behalf of your company, cybercriminals and fraudsters are counting on you being in a rush or distracted. But a few precautions can protect travelers, budgets, and peace of mind.
Watch out for these common travel scams – and learn how to avoid them.
1. Phishing emails about flights or hotels
Scammers send urgent messages claiming a flight is cancelled or a hotel booking needs immediate confirmation. These phishing attempts often lead to fake sites designed to steal payment or personal data.
How to stay safe:
- Don’t click links or download attachments from unfamiliar senders.
- Only use agencies or booking partners approved by your company.
- Look closely at email addresses – fraudulent ones often include subtle misspellings or odd domains.
2. Card skimming at airports or self-serve kiosks
High-traffic areas like airports, train stations, and petrol stations can be hotspots for card skimming. Fraudsters install hidden devices to capture card data in seconds.
How to avoid traps:
- Inspect card readers before use – if something looks loose or out of place, don’t insert a card.
- Opt for contactless payments or digital wallets whenever possible.
- Monitor account activity regularly while traveling.
3. Unsecured Wi-Fi networks
Free airport or hotel Wi-Fi is convenient – but it can also be a gateway for cybercriminals to intercept business data or credentials.
How to secure connections:
- Avoid logging into sensitive platforms like banking, email or corporate portals over public Wi-Fi.
- Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt internet connections.
- Confirm the official network name with staff before connecting.
Final tips for secure business travel
- Enable two-factor authentication on key accounts before your trip.
- Inform your bank of international or high-frequency travel to avoid flagged transactions or blocked cards.
- Keep digital and printed copies of essential documents like passports, itineraries, and emergency contacts.
- Where possible, avoid posting physical location or travel plans in real-time on social media.
Stay secure, travel confidently
At the heart of every great trip is peace of mind. By staying alert and informed, business travelers can avoid common scams and focus on what really matters: delivering results, building relationships, and returning home safely.
