Enjoy Summer, Scam-Free
A little caution goes a long way. Verify alerts, be mindful of what you share online, and slow down before clicking or paying. With awareness and a healthy dose of skepticism, you can enjoy your summer without falling for a scam.
After all, the only thing you should be catching this summer is sunshine—not a scam.
Vacation Posts and Social Media Oversharing
Sharing travel plans and vacation photos on social media is fun—but posting in real time can signal that you’re away from home. Scammers and criminals look for these cues to target accounts or attempt identity theft.
Consider posting photos after you return and keep privacy settings tight so personal details aren’t easily accessible.
Fake Vacation Home Rental Listings
Fraudsters often create fake rental listings using stolen photos and prices that seem too good to pass up. Victims are asked to pay upfront—often outside trusted platforms—and once the money is sent, the listing disappears.
Protect yourself by booking through reputable websites, avoiding wire transfers or gift cards, and verifying the property and owner before paying.
“Going Fishing”: Don’t Get Phished
Phishing scams spike during summer travel season. Emails and texts may pretend to be airlines, hotels, or delivery services, asking you to “confirm” reservations or update payment information.
These messages are designed to hook you into clicking a malicious link. If something feels off, don’t bite—delete the message and verify directly with the company.