In a world where everything is just a click away, defrauding you out of enjoying a relaxing vacation somewhere is just as effortless.
“There are other companies out there that represent hotels in a scrupulous way,” said President of Trade Winds Resort Keith Overton.
Overton said getting scammed by booking through a third party is becoming more common than ever.
“Many companies out there don’t have access to our inventory, so you have to be careful that you are booking at third party website, to know that they are credible,” he said.
While well-known online booking websites are safe to use, Overton said there is a barrage of other sketchy websites operating from overseas by sophisticated online criminals who are anxiously waiting to cash in on your “made believe” reservations.
In fact, across the country 2.5 million people were affected by those “fake reservations.”
To make sure you don’t get scammed, experts say don’t believe everything you see on the Internet, know your sources and make sure they are reliable and when in doubt , just pick up the phone and call the hotel.
Representative David Jolly said these scams could affect tourism in Florida and now the state is taking action.
“The Florida Congressional Delegation both Republican and Democrats have asked the Federal Trade Commission to immediately investigate, to launch a formal investigation to determine, how we can crack down on this type of fraud,” said Jolly.