Top Travel Group Highlights Dangers of Web Scams
A bogus airline website, newflights.net, was recently shut down after scamming dozens of travellers and the Australian Securities and Investment Commission has warned consumers to be vigilant against copy cat sites.
Travelscene American Express was awarded the prestigious industry accolade at an Australian Federation of Travel Agents event on Saturday evening in Melbourne. Managing Director, Mr. Bob Steel, stated that while the internet is a valuable research tool, consumers best protection is to leave the booking to a licensed travel agent.
“We’re not out to destroy the integrity of the internet because it is a valuable way for travellers to research a destination, prices or products. But it can be a very dangerous tool for consumers to book on unless its through a licensed travel agent.”
Mr. Steel, who was also re-elected Chair of AFTA at the event, stated that AFTA’s new campaign promoting the benefits of using travel agents was vital. “Many consumers are not aware of the risks involved in booking travel. The campaign tag line ‘without a travel agent you’re on your own” has been made all too real for this unfortunate group of consumers.
Using a licensed travel agent to finalise arrangements, be it bricks or clicks, means you have the safety and security of a professional who can validate the integrity of a website, its prices and the claims it is making. And if something ever does go wrong, you have somewhere to turn to give you assistance.”
Graham Muldoon
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