When you’re exploring a new destination on vacation, the last thing you want is to have your hard-earned money or personal information stolen.
Holidays abroad can be expensive and falling victim to scammers is never ideal – especially when you want to enjoy a stress-free holiday, reports Wales Online.
Spotting potential scams is often easy, but some are easy to fall for without thinking twice. That’s according to Cody Candee, CEO and founder of travel and luggage company Bounce, who warns of a common scam that’s easy to fall for.
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If you’re traveling on vacation and don’t have your data roaming enabled, you might not hesitate to go into your phone’s Wi-Fi settings and try connecting to an available network that isn’t password protected.
However, this can pose a significant threat to your phone’s security, warned Cody. He explained: “Public Wi-Fi networks, such as those found in cafes or public transport, are risky because scammers can set up fake hotspots to steal personal information. Once connected, these networks can intercept sensitive data such as personal login details and bank account information.
“To protect yourself, avoid using public Wi-Fi for important transactions. If necessary, travelers can use a VPN to encrypt connections and protect data.”
If you have landed at your vacation destination without having exchanged money yet, be cautious of certain online services that offer special offers.
Cody warned: “Currency scams are common in 2024 and may involve counterfeit money or hidden fees, especially with inauthentic services offering tempting exchange rates. To protect yourself, use approved services and check for official licenses and reviews. Staying informed about these types of scams can help ensure you receive real money and avoid losses before a big trip.”
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