Cons, Frauds and Scams
Travel Agency Scam
Consumers have received calls from someone pretending to be a
travel agency with a name that is a legitimate travel agency.
They offer a cheap or free trip or a prize and get the
consumer's credit card information.
Unfortunately, it's the
legitimate travel agency that is left to answer the complaints
by the consumer when they find out the offer is not valid.
Please check out any company before giving them personal
information.
Travel Fraud
Travel fraud is booming. The Federal Trade Commission
reported that in 2002 3,602 consumers reported losing a total of
$3.5 million in vacation scams. The scams involve some travel
clubs that offer a lifetime membership promising large discounts
on airfare, hotels, etc. -- even though you're likely to find
better deals on your own; or you get a call that you've received
a free trip -- that "free" trip can end up costing you more than
$1000 in hidden costs or extra fees.
Many travel companies are
legitimate, but beware of companies that hide extra fees in
all-inclusive packages or fail to disclose fees, taxes or
restrictions on "free" trips.
Mesa Police Department
PO Box 1466
Mesa, AZ 85211
480-644-2030