Booking a summer getaway or snagging tickets to a big show? The Better Business Bureau says fraudsters are counting on it — and they're ready with fake websites, phony ads and professional scams designed to wreck your plans and steal your money.
"Nothing ruins summer fun quicker than a scam," said Mary O'Sullivan-Andersen, president and CEO of BBB Serving Southern Alberta and East Kootenay. "Every year we see fake websites and advertisements pop up offering everything from concert tickets to vacation rentals."
She said scammers are increasingly sophisticated, using professional-looking websites to fool even careful consumers.
"There can be literally hundreds of these [spoof] websites operating," she said. "Organized crime and everyday scammers are getting more and more sophisticated. These sites can look almost identical to the real thing."
How to avoid summer scams
BBB says consumers can lower their risk by sticking with trusted vendors and knowing what red flags to watch for.
"Always use a business that you know and trust," said O'Sullivan-Andersen. "Pay with a credit card in case you need to dispute a charge later and look for HTTPS in the website address. The extra 's' stands for secure and although it's not foolproof protection it is another indication that the website is legitimate."
Tips to spot a fake website
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Research the seller and verify the name and web address match exactly
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Look for working contact information including phone and email
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Beware of rock-bottom prices that seem too good to be true
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Watch for poor grammar or spelling errors
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Use site verification tools like Google’s Safe Browsing checker
"Don't let scammers ruin your summer plans," O'Sullivan-Andersen said. "Take steps to protect yourself and your family."
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