Last week, Airbnb revealed its efforts to combat fake accommodation listings, announcing the removal of 59,000 fraudulent listings and the prevention of 157,000 more from joining the platform this year. To further verify listings, Airbnb plans to utilize AI in Canada, the U.S., the U.K., France, and Australia by early next year, with more countries added in 2024. While scams involving accommodation are a common concern for travelers, there are several other traps to be wary of when heading abroad. InsureandGo, a travel insurance provider, analyzed reports from Reddit’s travel boards to identify the most common scams encountered by tourists in 2023. The top scams reported were taxi driver scams and “free” gift scams, followed by restaurant overcharges, pickpocketing, and schemes conducted by seemingly friendly locals. To protect yourself, InsureandGo offers the following advice: when taking a taxi, use official taxi providers or reputable ride-share companies, agree upon a fare and route before starting the ride, and be wary of drivers who take longer routes or charge higher rates. When it comes to “free” gifts, politely decline any offers that seem too good to be true, and avoid straying from populated areas with unknown individuals. Additionally, be cautious when connecting to free Wi-Fi networks, as some may be set up by hackers. To prevent potential data compromise, verify network details with employees or check menus and signs for correct login information. Be cautious of fraudulent charging stations, as scammers may install malware onto devices to steal personal information. When dining at restaurants, always ask for prices if not listed, learn about tipping culture, and utilize translation apps to decipher menu items and bills. It is also crucial to research common scams and read traveler reviews to avoid falling victim to deceitful practices. Additionally, keeping valuables securely stored, being confident in travel plans, and investing in traveler’s insurance can provide added security and peace of mind during a trip.
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