Artificial intelligence is driving a significant rise in holiday travel scams, with over $265,000 reported lost by victims in 2023 alone. Nearly 25% of travelers have been scammed for at least $1,000, according to Booking.com.
Scammers are leveraging AI to create realistic phishing emails, fake websites, and chatbots that impersonate customer service representatives. These advancements make it increasingly difficult for travelers to distinguish between genuine offers and scams.
Experts from AIPRM highlight several common scams, including fake airline and hotel booking websites. Scammers use AI to design enticing offers that lead unsuspecting travelers to provide personal and financial information.
Rental scams are also prevalent, with AI-generated ads showcasing properties that do not exist. Scammers often try to move conversations off legitimate platforms to collect sensitive data directly.
Humanlike AI chatbots are another tool for deception. They can convincingly offer discounts and request upfront payments for non-existent trips. Travelers are advised to verify deals through trusted sources before sharing any personal information.
Phishing scams remain a major threat, with 20% of individuals likely to click on AI-generated phishing emails. These often create a sense of urgency, prompting users to enter payment information under false pretenses.
To avoid scams, travelers should watch for red flags such as unrealistic urgency and deals that seem too good to be true. AIPRM founder Christoph C. Cemper warns against impulsive decisions and emphasizes the importance of verifying offers.
If scammed, victims should immediately cancel any compromised financial accounts and report the incident to law enforcement, although resolution is often unlikely.