4. “Free” Wi-Fi Connections
Free internet connection is frequently promoted as a perk of staying at a hotel, but it also gives con artists a foot in the door. Even if the network seems legitimate, free public Wi-Fi connections should be avoided.
The promise of free internet connection lures tourists into wireless internet “skimming”. This frequently occurs in the hotel’s public spaces. Although it is free to use, the connection is not secure.
The con artist just creates a hotspot with the name “Free Wi-Fi” in a hotel, park, or other well-known public location. Any data you use after initiating the connection—including websites visited, passwords entered, credit card numbers, etc.—will be transferred straight to the host/computer. scammer’s
Make careful you use the right network, which typically requires a password, such as your room number, if you’re staying at a hotel that offers free Wi-Fi. To avoid misunderstanding, ask a front desk employee.
If you travel frequently, it’s important to take into account the function that lets you use your smartphone as a hotspot on some phone carriers. It will cost you a few dollars more, but it’s cheaper than having your identity stolen.
5. Checkout Scam
The front desk of a hotel always requests a form of payment to be kept on file, such as a credit or debit card, for incidentals when guests check in. However, customers have the option to pay in another way, like cash, at the register.
Regardless of the payment method, obtain a receipt. This gives you a record of all charges made throughout your stay, so you may contest any charges made to the credit card on file if that should happen and have the receipt to support your claim.
Use the form of payment that was saved when you checked in as the strongest defense against fraud at the point of sale.
Using a credit card is preferable than using a debit card. If your number is hacked, using your debit card gives access to your checking account and might make contacting the bank to resolve the issue more difficult.
