BBB shares travel safety tips to avoid scams

JOPLIN, Mo. — The Better Business Bureau has safety tips to share for those planning a trip.

They say the planning stage of a vacation provides an opportunity for scammers to trick you with misinformation.

Plan ahead on your trips, as planning spontaneously and in a rush can open you up to scams.

They also encourage you to do your research and find trusted websites.

Be aware, that scammers tend to change one unnoticeable letter in the URL in an attempt to trick you. Also, be cautious of third-party transactions, because that could lead to false reservations.

“Just use some caution when you’re doing searches, particularly internet searches. For example, avoid broad category searches – like best deals for your destination. Scammers like to take advantage of that algorithm and create very realistic, but fake sites to take your money and your information,” said Pamela Hernandez, BBB-Springfield regional director.

The Better Business Bureau’s website has a list of approved links to travel-related websites.