The DTI advises Filipinos about online travel scams

Traveling offers an incredible opportunity to escape, have fun, and make lasting memories. Even though summer is nearing its end, there's still time to book a flight and embark on new adventures. However, it's essential to be cautious when booking through online travel agencies to avoid scams

According to Trade Assistant Secretary Amanda Nograles via the state media, PTV, the DTI asserts in the advisory that it has received several complaints about suppliers who, in essence, over-promised but under-delivered or otherwise resisted honoring their clients' bookings entirely.

The Department of Tourism (DTI) is handling grievances from customers who claim they were denied reservations or received subpar service, citing seasonal occurrences. The public is being urged to deal solely with registered travel agents by the trade assistant secretary. Travelers are also advised by the DTI to confirm payment instructions and expectations, especially for electronic tickets or lodging.

Here are some pointers to make sure your trip is both safe and enjoyable:

Investigate the Agency: Look into the online travel agency (OTA) before making a reservation. Check for reviews on reliable websites like Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and TripAdvisor. Look for any complaints or scam history.

Check Contact Information: Make sure the organization gives accurate contact information, such as a phone number and physical location. Agencies that just provide email contact should be avoided.

Make Use of Secure Payment Options: Steer clear of debit cards and wire transfers. Use secure payment methods, such as PayPal, or credit cards, as these provide superior fraud protection.

Verify Certification: Reputable online travel agencies (OTAs) frequently belong to trade bodies for travel, such the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) or the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Check their website for these qualifications.

Examine the Fine Print: Pay close attention to the terms and conditions of your reservation, taking note of the fees, refund policies, and cancellation policies.

Examine Prices: A deal is most likely too good to be true if it seems too fantastic. Examine rates across several websites and steer clear of offers that drastically lower the going pricing.

Search for Secure Websites: To verify if a website is safe, look for the padlock icon next to the address bar and the "https://" prefix in the URL. This means that encryption will be applied to your data.

Avoid Pop-up Ads: Be wary of pop-up advertisements that seem to be travel offers, as they frequently direct users to phony websites.
You may lessen your chances of falling victim to fraud and have a stress-free trip by following these safety measures. Happy journeys!