As a business traveller, you carry more than just your laptop and a positive attitude. Between your tech, your corporate credit cards, and that nice watch you wear to impress clients, you could be toting around R50,000 to R200,000 in value. That’s quite the tempting target for those with less-than-honest intentions.

Business travellers are particularly vulnerable to scams because they often have their guard down. They’re thinking about work, not about potential threats. That’s where a lot of problems can start.

Add to that that many business travellers are operating on tight schedules, often sleep-deprived, and may be unfamiliar with local customs and potential risks. It’s a perfect storm that scammers are all too happy to exploit. So, what are these scams targeting business travellers, and how can you avoid them?

The taxi trick

Inflated taxi fares are one of the most prevalent scams, and they occur right as you step off the plane. Unscrupulous taxi drivers may take advantage of a traveller’s unfamiliarity with the local area by taking unnecessarily long routes or using rigged meters. This scam can significantly inflate transportation costs.

Use reputable transportation services. Many TMCs can arrange reliable airport transfers for their clients. If you must take a taxi, ask your hotel for a fare estimate beforehand.

The Wi-Fi woe

In today’s always-on business world, Wi-Fi is like oxygen. But that free hotel or café Wi-Fi? It might come with a side of data theft.

Cybercriminals set up fake Wi-Fi networks with names like “Free Airport Wi-Fi” or “Hotel Guest Network”. When you connect, they can see everything you’re doing online. Use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi. It’s like an invisibility cloak for your data. Better yet, use your phone as a hotspot.

The currency con

Need to exchange some money? Be careful – this is prime hunting ground for scammers. You might get offered great rates by a street vendor, only to end up with counterfeit bills or less money than you should have received. Stick to official exchange bureaus or use ATMs inside banks.

The “free gift” fiasco

It starts with a friendly local offering you a bracelet or taking your photo. Next thing you know, they’re demanding payment. Once you accept the “gift”, the scammer pressures you to pay for it. Sometimes, it’s just a distraction so an accomplice can pick your pocket.

Good TMCs brief their clients on local customs and common scams. It’s like getting a cheat sheet for the test of travel.

The rogue booking blunder

With one in five consumers experiencing travel fraud and holiday scams, which is up 7% in the past year, according to a visa survey, bypassing your company’s travel programme is risky business.

You might think you’ve found a great deal on an OTA. But beware. Scammers create fake listings on OTAs or social media with stolen photos and fake reviews. You pay for a non-existent reservation or fall victim to identity theft through a fraudulent booking site.Stick with your corporate travel programme. It uses verified channels, reducing fraud risk.

Your travel manager can find suitable options within your budget while keeping you protected, because all accommodation is vetted. When you book outside the system, you lose crucial safeguards against sophisticated scams.

In conclusion

Don’t beat yourself up if you’re scammed. Report it to local authorities promptly, then contact your bank or credit card company. Inform your company directly and document everything for insurance purposes.

The value of a TMC in these situations is highly emphasised, they provide 24/7 support and arrange new travel if arrangements if needed. They’re essentially your travel guardian angels when things go wrong.

Bonnie Smith | General Manager | FCM Travel Solutions | mail me |

Related FAQs: Business travel scam protection

Q: What are some common travel scams to be aware of while on a business trip?

A: Common travel scams include booking scams, where fraudsters create fake travel agencies and unauthorised credit card charges. It’s essential to book through reputable travel companies and verify their credentials to avoid falling victim to these common travel scams.

Q: How can I avoid travel scams when booking my business trip online?

A: To avoid travel scams, always use secure payment methods, research travel agencies thoroughly and look for reviews from other travellers. Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, as they often are indicators of fraudulent activities.

Q: What best practices should I follow for travel fraud prevention?

A: Best practices for travel fraud prevention include using fraud detection software, keeping your credit card information secure and being vigilant about phishing emails that ask for personal data. Always monitor your accounts for unauthorised charges.

Q: What types of fraud should I watch for in the travel industry?

A: Types of fraud in the travel industry include credit card fraud, booking scams and identity theft. Always ensure that you are using secure payment methods and be cautious of sharing personal information with unknown sources.

Q: What are the risks of fraud when travelling internationally for business?

A: When travelling internationally, the risks of fraud increase due to unfamiliarity with local scams, potential data breaches and the use of non-secure payment methods. It’s crucial to stay informed about common travel scams in the specific region you are visiting.

Q: How can I protect my credit card information while booking travel online?

A: To protect your credit card information while booking travel online, use websites with secure payment options (look for “https” in the URL), avoid public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive transactions and regularly update your passwords to enhance your online fraud protection.

Q: What should I do if I suspect I have been a victim of travel fraud?

A: If you suspect you have been a victim of travel fraud, immediately contact your credit card company to report unauthorised charges, change your passwords for online accounts, and file a report with the local authorities if necessary. It’s also wise to monitor your accounts closely for any further suspicious activity.

Q: Are there specific tools for travel management that can help prevent scams?

A: Yes, many travel management tools offer features like fraud detection and reporting, secure payment options and integrated travel insurance. Using these tools can greatly reduce the risk of encountering travel fraud.

Q: What are some common types of travel booking scams to watch out for?

A: Common types of travel booking scams include fake travel websites, phishing emails that mimic legitimate travel agencies and offers that are “too good to be true.” Always verify the legitimacy of the travel agent or agency before making any bookings.

Q: How can travel insurance help in case of fraud during my business travels?

A: Travel insurance can provide coverage for financial losses incurred due to travel fraud, including reimbursement for canceled trips or unauthorised charges. It’s a good practice to include travel insurance in your travel plans for added security against unforeseen events.