With the amount of scam websites on the rise, how can you be sure not to be scammed. These scam sites are increasingly sophisticated and effective When a deal looks 'too good to be true', it probably is. Perhaps we can help.....
We want to raise awareness of these travel scams where deals often look to good to be true.
With AI, Chat GPT, AI Picture Generators the level, the intensity, the detail of these on line scams is quite remarkable. Stunning looking websites featuring some of the best chalets in the Alps.
Even on ‘reputable’ booking sites like Booking . com , these scammers can get a property featured.
The sad truth, is these chalets are being illegally represented. Usually using a different name, but lifting the exact images and prepared descriptions from the actual websites. Using AI to claim the knowledge of the resort and offering services they cannot deliver on!
How to spot the red flags:
🏁 Check the social media accounts – does it have years of relevant post or just pretty pictures and hashtags? Have the founders got a LinkedIn account that looks trustworthy? Do you know people who follow these accounts?
🏁 Can you see the same chalet on different sites but with a different name? If it’s a credible site, they will use the original chalet name that you’ll find on numerous sites. Do your research!
🏁 If you actually get to speak to someone, ask lots of specific questions when you make a booking. However be aware that the scammers can be very friendly and convincing, especially when copying from AI. Ask them who actually operates the chalet. A credible agent will happily divulge this trusted information. A scammer probably won’t know.
🏁Know the difference between ‘an operator’ and ‘an agent’. Many people do not. An Operator is the company who actually runs and services the chalet in question. They provide the staff, the F&B and all the concierge services. The Agent is the sales agent, who’s job is to sell the chalet – there are numerous high end, very credible agencies and a quick search will easily reveal the tried, tested and trusted on line agencies. The Operators will also have their own websites, showcasing their chalets and their services. Do your research.
🏁Check their bank account, is it with a reputable or recognizable bank? Does the phone number match the country they claim to be in? What’s the IP address of the website? Where is the website registered?
🏁 Trust your gut. If a deal is too good to be true, it probably is.
🏁 Finally, if you’re not sure, feel free to check with us. Whether you are enquiring about a holiday with Kaluma or about a chalet with The LCC or simply want to verify a property, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
We’ve spoken to several clients in the last two weeks, people who have been unsure on what they have read. Where something doesn’t quite make sense. And they have called us.
We can verify if our chalets are being represented by credible and preferred agents and we can also present and validate other chalets we work closely with.
Some chalets have been real; others fakes. We are passionate at doing what we can to help people avoid losing money. These scam sites are increasingly sophisticated and effective, let us help you to book your perfect holiday.
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