This message was sent via the Bromley Neighbourhood Watch Association mailing
service.
if you wish to
contact them, e-mail: info@bromleynwa.org.uk
Dear Coordinator,
Victims
have reported booking tickets via websites or a “popular” ticket broker, only to
discover that after payment via bank transfer or electronic wire transfer, the
tickets/booking references received are counterfeit. In some cases, all
communications between the company or broker and the victim have been
severed.Fraudsters are targeting individuals who are seeking to travel to African nations and the Middle East, particularly those wishing to travel in time for popular public and religious holidays.
Prevention Advice:
- Pay safe: Be cautious if you're asked to
pay directly into a private individual’s bank account. Paying by direct bank
transfer is like paying by cash – the money is very difficult to trace and is
not refundable. Wherever possible, pay by credit card or a debit
card.
- Conduct research on any company you’re
considering purchasing tickets from; for example, are there any negative reviews
or forum posts by previous customers online? Don’t just rely on one review - do
a thorough online search to check the company’s credentials.
- Check any company website thoroughly;
does it look professional? Are there any spelling mistakes or irregularities?
There should be a valid landline phone number and a full postal address so that
the company can be contacted. Avoid using the site if there is only a PO Box
address and mobile phone number, as it could be difficult to get in touch after
you buy tickets. PO Box addresses and mobile phone numbers are easy to change
and difficult to trace.
- Be aware that purchasing tickets from a
third party, particularly when initial contact has been made via a social media
platform can be incredibly risky.
- If tickets to your intended destination
appear cheaper than any other vendor, always consider this; if it looks too good
to be true, it probably is!
- Look for the logo: Check whether the
company is a member of a recognised trade body such as ABTA or ATOL. You can
verify membership of ABTA online, at www.abta.com.
- If you have been affected by this, or any other type of fraud, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040, or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk.
Kind regards,
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