In 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that consumers spent $274 million on travel scams, with 82% of more than 212 million Americans planning a vacation this summer. The FTC is careful to be careful of travel scams.
The most common travel scams that catch Americans off guard in 2025
Fake accommodation list.
Scammers have created persuasive fake accommodation lists on legitimate platforms and social media, and often promote attractive discounts to hook unsuspecting holidays. Victims usually don’t realize they are being scamed until they arrive to find that the property does not exist.
Fishing Travel Apps and Fake Booking Websites
Cybercriminals are targeting travelers with counterfeit versions of popular travel and itinerary apps, especially those downloaded from unofficial app stores. These fake apps are often used to spread spyware and steal login credentials. In fact, one in five US travelers have already encountered a travel booking scam, with 13% losing more than $500 and 5% exceeding $1,000.
Scammers also make compelling copies of legal travel websites and offer unrealistic low prices on flights and accommodations. The victim submits a payment, but discovers that there is no reservation or refund. To be safe, download the app only from official stores and use a website with secure HTTPS encryption. Don’t put pressure on insufficient grammar lists, requests for bank transfers, or move the platform outside. Beware of rare domain endings (such as .info, or .shop), unverified reviews, and stick to the trusted travel sites you bookmarked.
Deepfake customer support scam.
AI tools are currently impersonating travel agency customer service agents via voice calls, video chats, and even live chatbots. These “agents” may provide help regarding bookings, refunds, or delays, but are designed to harvest personal data or request fraudulent payments.
Do not trust unsolicited contacts via WhatsApp, Telegram, or unverified numbers. Always cross-check with the official company website before you get involved.
QR Code Payment Fraud
From restaurants to car parks and museums, QR codes are everywhere. The scammers know that. Cybercriminals are now replacing legitimate QR codes with fraudulent facial expression classifications that redirect users to payment information, login credentials, or phishing sites designed to install malware.
Approximately 25% of Americans fall victim to “Quishing” scams. Before scanning, double check the URL, look for HTTPS, and consider using mobile antivirus software. If you are in doubt, please check with your staff.
Fake travel insurance offers.
Scammers advertise price-reducing travel insurance on social media and unknown websites. Often there is no actual policy behind them. Victims only discover the truth when they are about to make a claim abroad.
Christoph C. Cemper, founder of AIPRM, is the founder of a business solutions company, saying that the scammers are increasingly sophisticated, especially during peak travel seasons when people are more relaxed and distracted.
“They currently use emerging technologies such as AI-generated content and deepfakes to deceive even the most tech-savvy tourists,” Cemper said.
