THE National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has issued a stern warning to the public against fraudulent hotel accommodations, resorts, and travel promotional packages circulating online, especially as holiday bookings surge during the “Ber” months.
NCRPO Officer-in-Charge Police Brigadier General Christopher N. Abrahano advised travelers to exercise heightened caution when securing online bookings, pointing out that cybercriminals frequently exploit high seasonal demand by posting suspiciously low rates and limited-time deals to trap unsuspecting victims.
“Do not let attractive travel deals cloud your judgment. Before sending any payment, verify that the hotel, travel agency, or booking account is legitimate.
A few minutes of verification can prevent the loss of your hard-earned money,” PBGen. Abrahano emphasized.
Authorities cautioned consumers to look out for common red flags, including newly created social media accounts, copied logos, stolen imagery, and unofficial websites mimicking well-known hotels or travel firms.
Buyers should also verify bookings through official corporate channels and avoid transferring funds directly to personal bank accounts.
“If the offer is too good to be true, stop and verify. Do not be pressured by supposed flash sales, expiring offers, or sellers who insist on immediate payment,” PBGen. Abrahano added.
Furthermore, the public is strictly reminded never to disclose sensitive financial details, passwords, or one-time passwords (OTPs) to individuals claiming to represent booking platforms or travel agencies.
Victims of online travel scams are advised to secure digital receipts, message logs, and screenshots, and to report incidents promptly to law enforcement.
The NCRPO remains actively engaged with specialized cyber-fraud units to monitor and suppress digital crimes, urging citizens to stay alert, verify before they pay, and protect their hard-earned money online.
