Tourism scam

Western Isles Trading Standards are warning accommodation businesses about holiday scam enquiries and emails currently circulating local businesses.

Contained in the enquiry there may be reference to an overpayment scam, the individual sends you a bank cheque or money order for an amount that is more than what is actually due.

However, the cheque will turn out to be counterfeit or stolen.

Before your bank realises this, the individual asks to send the "overpayment" amount back to them or to a third party.

A common excuse is saying that their travel department made a mistake and they need for you to send the extra funds to a third party to complete another reservation.

After the funds are sent, the bank discovers the original cheque is not valid.

A Trading Standards spokesperson said: "The best way to protect your business is to get to know who you are renting to before they arrive.

"While e-mail may be convenient, it is strongly encouraged that owners and managers speak with potential guests before confirming their reservations.

"This enables you to learn more about them and their trip, and answer any questions they may have."

Key points help identify fraudulent enquiries:

Demonstrate a poor grasp of spelling, grammar and punctuation
Offer to pay more than the stated rate
Mention of reimbursement to a ‘travel agent’
Want to pay by certified cheque
No traveler phone number provided
Submit enquiry for specific dates but will often disclose that dates are flexible
Gives far more information than the typical traveler
Uses phrases like “I’m glad to inform you”, “Kindly check if”, “My regards to your family”, “Await your swift response.”

Scammers target island tourism accommodation businesses

23 August 2016