Stay protected from online fraud this holiday season
The holidays are a joyful yet busy time when it's easy to let your guard down. As you head into the festive season, Flight Centre wants to ensure your travel plans and finances stay protected online.
We're providing 7 tips to help safeguard against cyber fraud:
1. Verify payment details
Verify payment information directly with your travel expert before making payment of any funds. Scammers often send convincing emails or texts with fake payment details to reroute funds to another bank account. Contact your travel expert using the contact numbers provided to verify bank account details – this extra step prevents your hard-earned money falling into the wrong hands.
2. Use secure payment methods
To ensure peace of mind, opt for Flight Centre’s secure online payment platform and make payment by card via the secure link shared with you. We strongly recommend using this secure payment method, as credit cards offer certain protections on your purchase. Alternatively, you can pay for your travel in store via OZOW or with your credit, cheque, or debit cards.
3. Exercise caution with links and attachments
Scammers often send out deceptive emails or messages that appear authentic. Exercise extra caution when you receive unexpected messages requesting payments or personal information, or when there is pressure to make an immediate payment. Avoid clicking on any suspicious links and verify the sender's details by expanding the information at the top of the received email.
4. Strengthen account security
Create complex, unique passwords for each account and turn on two-factor authentication which adds an extra layer of security. It is always advisable to use a passphrase instead of a password where possible.
5. Beware of deals that seem too good to be true
While it's fun to bag a bargain, be sceptical of deals that seem unbelievably cheap. Scammers often lure victims with jaw-dropping offers that are too good to be true. Double-check the authenticity of any deal that seems suspiciously affordable. At Flight Centre, we guarantee great affordable deals with support around the clock from our team of Travel Experts.
6. Protect your personal information
Closely guard personal and financial information. Never share sensitive data like passport details, credit card information, or identity numbers unless you've verified the requester is trusted. This protects your identity.
7. Follow your instincts
Trust your intuition. If something seems questionable, consult your travel expert right away before moving forward. We're happy to review any concerns and provide guidance. Also, stay updated on the latest scamming tactics so you can recognise red flags. At Flight Centre, your security is our top priority. Our dedicated travel experts are here to provide guidance and peace of mind. If you have any concerns about a deal, email, payment request or anything else this holiday season, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Reach out to your dedicated travel expert or Flight Centre’s Customer Experience team at customer@fctg.co.za anytime - we’re always here to assist.
Wishing you a secure and joyful holiday season.
