10 Travel scams you need to know about before your 2025 holiday

Planning a getaway in 2025? Make sure scams don’t tag along for the ride.

While you’re daydreaming about sipping sangria in Spain or shopping in Singapore, fraudsters are planning their next move. As global travel bounces back, scammers are targeting unsuspecting tourists with more creativity – and tech – than ever before.

In this guide, we’ll uncover the most common travel scams in 2025 and share tips to protect yourself, your money, and your memories.

Why travel scams are on the rise in 2025

With AI-driven tech, digital payments, and international travel rebounding post-pandemic, scams are evolving fast. We’re seeing:

• Increased use of AI to fake reviews, clone websites, and craft phishing messages
• Digital traps like QR code fraud and fake Wi-Fi networks
• Classic scams with modern twists, from taxi meter rigging to fraudulent “local help”

The good news? With a little preparation, you can outsmart these tricks and enjoy your holiday stress-free.

10 Travel scams to watch out for in 2025

Here’s what’s trending in tourist traps this year – and how to avoid becoming a victim.

1. Fake booking websites and rental listings

Scammers replicate legitimate hotel or airline sites to collect payments for fake bookings. You pay, but there’s no room or flight when you arrive.

How to spot it:

• The URL looks slightly off (e.g. “boooking.com”)
• Prices are suspiciously low
• The site lacks HTTPS encryption
• You’re asked to pay via bank transfer

How to avoid it:

• Use trusted platforms like Booking.com or Expedia
• Double-check listings through reviews
• Contact the hotel directly to confirm your reservation
• Never send money outside of the booking platform

2. AI-Generated fake reviews

Businesses or scammers use AI tools to create glowing fake reviews en masse, misleading travellers into booking poor or non-existent services.

How to spot it:

• Reviews sound generic or overly polished
• Dozens posted in a short time
• Lack of detailed pros/cons or personal anecdotes

How to avoid it:

• Check reviews on multiple platforms (e.g. Google, TripAdvisor, Trustpilot)
• Look for specific reviewer details or photos
• Beware of listings with only 5-star reviews

3. “Free Wi-Fi” data theft

Hackers set up fake open Wi-Fi networks in tourist areas. Once connected, they can intercept your passwords, emails, and payment details.

How to spot it:

• Wi-Fi with generic names like “Free_Public_WiFi”
• No password or login page
• Poor signal strength despite being nearby

How to avoid it:

• Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network)
• Stick to Wi-Fi in hotels, airports or cafés you trust
• Avoid accessing banking or sensitive accounts in public

4. QR code payment scams

Scammers replace real QR codes (e.g. at restaurants or museums) with their own, redirecting you to a phishing site or fake payment portal.

How to spot it:

• The QR sticker looks worn, loose, or tampered with
• The website it opens doesn’t match the business
• You're asked to input card info manually

How to avoid it:

• Ask staff to confirm QR codes
• Avoid scanning codes on posters or signs in public spaces
• Use contactless payment where possible

5. Fake taxis and ride-hailing impersonators

Unlicensed drivers pose as ride-share drivers or local taxis, then overcharge you, take longer routes, or fake app issues to demand extra payment.

How to spot it:

• Car doesn't match app details
• No visible taxi license
• Driver insists on cash or cancels ride and offers to drive anyway

How to avoid it:

• Only use official taxi ranks or trusted apps
• Check license plates before entering
• Report suspicious drivers via the app

6. Overpriced currency exchange booths

Tourist-focused kiosks offer poor exchange rates or hidden fees, and may even shortchange customers on purpose.

How to spot it:

• Handwritten rates or small print
• “No commission” signs, but unfavourable rates
• Pushy sales tactics

How to avoid it:

• Use ATMs at reputable banks
• Bring a travel card with fair exchange rates
• Pre-order currency through your bank or online

7. “Attraction Closed” diversion scam

A “helpful” local tells you the site you’re heading to is closed – then leads you to a shop or tour they earn commission from.

How to spot it:

• They approach you without prompting
• Insist they’re doing you a favour
• Suggest a suspicious alternative

How to avoid it:

• Check official opening times online
• Politely decline and keep walking
• Confirm closures with staff or other tourists

8. “Helpful Stranger” distractions

Someone offers to help with your bag, ticket machine, or directions – while an accomplice pickpockets or scams you.

How to spot it:

• Overly eager “assistants”
• Distraction during payment or boarding
• You suddenly feel crowded or boxed in

How to avoid it:

• Stay alert in crowds or stations
• Politely but firmly decline unsolicited help
• Keep valuables in zipped bags or hidden pouches

9. Free bracelet or “gift” trick

A seller puts a bracelet or item in your hand (or ties it on your wrist) and then demands payment – sometimes aggressively.

How to spot it:

• Pushy street vendors in tourist spots
• Sudden approach with an “offering”
• Demand for money after the fact

How to avoid it:

• Never accept items from strangers
• Walk away quickly if approached
• Don’t engage, even if they seem friendly

10. ATM skimming devices

Criminals attach fake card readers or pin pads to ATMs to capture your bank data.

How to spot it:

• Loose or bulky card slots
• PIN pad feels off or raised
• ATM is in a poorly lit or isolated area

How to avoid it:

• Use machines inside banks or airports
• Cover your hand when typing your PIN
• Check your account regularly while abroad

Bonus travel safety tips

Staying safe while travelling isn't just about avoiding scams – it's also about building smart habits that protect you, your valuables, and your peace of mind. Here are five simple yet essential travel safety tips that can make a big difference.

1. Take photos of your rental car or scooter – before and after use

If you’re hiring a car, scooter or bike abroad, always take detailed photos and videos from multiple angles before you drive away – and again when returning it. Make sure you capture:

• Existing scratches, dents, or damage
• The fuel gauge and mileage
• The license plate and rental agreement reference number

Why it matters:

Some disreputable vendors may claim you caused damage that was already there. Having photographic evidence can help you dispute unfair charges – especially if they try to withhold your deposit or charge your credit card later.

2. Store digital backups of your passport, visa, and booking confirmations

Imagine losing your bag or phone abroad – how easily could you access your travel essentials?

Before departure, scan or take photos of:

• Your passport and visa
• Travel insurance details
• Flight, train and hotel confirmations
• Emergency contact numbers
• Copies of prescriptions or medical documents (if needed)

Store these safely in encrypted cloud storage (like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud) and share access with a trusted friend or family member.

Top tip: Email the documents to yourself, so you can access them from any device if needed.

3. Avoid flashing expensive jewellery, tech, or large amounts of cash

When travelling, blending in is often the safest option. Tourists are prime targets for theft, especially in crowded areas or nightlife spots. To avoid unwanted attention:

• Leave flashy watches or high-value jewellery at home
• Keep your smartphone usage discreet in public
• Use small denominations of cash and avoid opening a bulging wallet or purse in view

Top tip: Consider using a dummy wallet – a simple wallet with a small amount of cash and expired cards – that you can hand over if confronted in an unlikely but worst-case scenario.

4. Use RFID-blocking wallets to avoid electronic pickpocketing

Scammers are using more sophisticated methods – including RFID skimming, where criminals use handheld scanners to read your contactless card or passport chip data without you even noticing.

How to protect yourself:

• Use an RFID-blocking wallet or travel pouch
• Store your cards and passport in RFID-protected sleeves
• Be cautious in crowded areas like public transport, markets, and tourist attractions

Did you know? Some backpacks and handbags now come with built-in RFID-blocking compartments for added security.

5. Get travel insurance that covers the unexpected

Even the most seasoned travellers can fall victim to an unexpected incident. The best protection? A comprehensive travel insurance policy tailored to your trip.

Look for cover that includes:

• Theft or loss of personal belongings (phones, cameras, cash, etc.)
• Trip cancellation or interruption 
• Medical expenses and emergency repatriation

Pro tip: Read the fine print – not all policies cover scams or losses due to negligence (e.g. leaving your bag unattended).

Not sure which policy is right for you? Our simple guide to travel insurance breaks it down.

Stay one step ahead of scammers

Scams may be smarter in 2025, but with a little caution and awareness, you’ll stay one step ahead. From fake bookings to digital fraud, knowing the warning signs helps you travel with confidence. Stay alert, protect your valuables, and don’t forget travel insurance for extra reassurance. The world’s waiting – explore it safely.

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