‘Tis the Season for Travel Scams: Ohio Division of Financial Institutions Urges Safe Holiday Travel Booking Amid Increased Risk

COLUMBUS, Ohio - As Ohioans make their travel plans for the upcoming holiday season, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Financial Institutions is urging consumers to stay alert for vacation- and travel-related scams, which continue to rise both in frequency and in overall losses.

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Ohioans reported 1,289 cases of vacation fraud in 2025, resulting in $3.44 million in total losses. The trend continued into 2026, with Ohioans filing 777 reports of vacation-related scams so far, totaling $1.54 million in losses. In addition, the Division's Office of Consumer Affairs noticed an increase in the number of holiday-related scam reports received over the past several years, including reports of scams targeting travelers for this upcoming season.

Due to how busy the season is and the many distractions, Division Interim Superintendent Ingrid White says it's common for scammers to intensify efforts this time of year, particularly when families are beginning to book trips to visit loved ones.

"Holiday travel planning is the perfect environment for scammers, especially when consumers feel pressured to book quickly or believe they've found an unusually good deal," White said. "Staying aware of common tactics can help protect you and your hard-earned money, ensuring your holiday season stays stress-free."

Common Travel Scams to Look Out For
Ohio travelers should remain on alert for these prevalent travel scams:

• The Arrival Trap: Scammers may pose as airport or transportation personnel and steer travelers toward taxis, shuttles, or rideshares that charge inflated fares or collect payment through unsafe methods.
• Guest Desk Deception: Travelers may receive calls from someone claiming to be from the hotel's front desk requesting to "verify" credit card information. Once provided, scammers use the details to make fraudulent purchases.
• "Free" Vacation Offers: Fraudulent vacation promotions often come with hidden fees and taxes. Legitimate companies won't require payment in order to receive free prizes.
• AI or Robocall Vacation Deals: Unsolicited calls, sometimes using AI-generated voices, pitch limited-time travel deals or deep discounts. These calls are frequently illegal and commonly associated with scams.
• Fake Travel Documents: Be wary of websites that charge for services such as visas or international driving permits that are available through legitimate government channels.
• Vacation Rental Fraud: Scammers create convincing fake rental listings using real photos and descriptions. After payment is sent, the listing disappears, leaving travelers stranded at a property that doesn't exist or isn't actually available.
• Charter Flight Scams: Ads may promote private or semi-private charter flights at unusually low prices. After travelers pay, the operation vanishes, offering no flight, no refund, and no recourse.

How to Stay Safe
The Division encourages Ohioans to take the following precautions to avoid becoming a victim of travel scams throughout each step of holiday travel:

• Before you travel: Research rental listings carefully and verify that travel offers are legitimate. Avoid paying for travel packages or accommodations with wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Whenever possible, use a credit card for added security. Take your time when planning and ask about cancellation policies upfront.
• While you travel: Be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics. If your plans change, stay calm and rely on reputable travel booking platforms to adjust accommodations or transportation.
• After you travel: Review your financial statements for any unauthorized charges. If you suspect you've encountered a scam, report it to local authorities or a consumer protection agency such as the FTC or Better Business Bureau.

For more information on how to protect yourself as a consumer in Ohio or to file a consumer complaint, visit the Ohio Department of Commerce website at com.ohio.gov/education-and-training/ohio-consumers.

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About the Ohio Division of Financial Institutions
The Division of Financial Institutions is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at www.com.ohio.gov.