CAA issues Black Friday holiday fraud warning
Above: CAA offices at Gatwick.
Copyright CAA
The data, provided by City of London Police, showed that Londoners recorded the highest losses, losing nearly £2.5 million. Other regions significantly affected include the West Midlands (£546,000), Greater Manchester (£508,000), and Hampshire (£482,000).
As price-savvy travellers seek deals, the regulator is reminding consumers to check that their holiday is ATOL protected. Travel companies selling package holidays in the UK must hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL). If an ATOL-licensed company stops trading, the scheme protects customers from being stranded abroad or losing money.
Top tips to avoid holiday fraud
- Check for ATOL protection: Travel companies selling air package holidays in the UK must hold an ATOL (Air Travel Organiser’s Licence). If the company stops trading, the scheme protects customers from being stranded abroad or losing money. Consumers should check the travel provider is an ATOL holder and that the holiday is ATOL protected at ATOL.org.
- An ATOL Certificate should be issued at booking, showing what is protected.
- Use a credit card when booking: Paying with a credit card may offer enhanced protection under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. This means that if something goes wrong, the card issuer may refund the cost (for purchases between £100 and £30,000).
- Take out travel insurance: Travel insurance can cover cancellations, missed transport, medical emergencies and lost or stolen items. Policies vary, so consumers should check the terms and conditions carefully before buying.
Selina Chadha, Group Director of Consumers & Markets at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said: “Holiday fraud is a growing concern, especially around major sales events like Travel Tuesday. With over £11 million lost in 2024 alone, it’s important that consumers are equipped with the knowledge they need to protect themselves.
“Before booking, check that your travel provider is an ATOL holder and that your holiday is ATOL protected. You should receive an ATOL Certificate that confirms what’s covered.
“Using a credit card and taking out travel insurance can also provide extra peace of mind if things don’t go to plan.”
Chief Superintendent Amanda Wolf from the National Lead Force for fraud, City of London Police, said: “Online shopping can be hectic when it’s Black Friday, this includes the many holiday offers that appear for Travel Tuesday. With over £11 million lost to holiday fraud in 2024, we recommend those who are looking to snap up holiday deals stay vigilant, look out for fake adverts on social media and online marketplaces.
“Stop and check the Black Friday offer you’re interested in and make sure you do extra research before snapping up that holiday deal, especially if the prices are unbelievably cheap. Ensure you pay with a credit card to benefit from the additional consumer protection and avoid paying via bank transfer as this can be a key sign of fraud. Follow ATOL’s advice to protect yourself from holiday fraud.”
Travel Tuesday, originally a US trend, is becoming a major fixture in the UK’s travel sales calendar. Online interest has grown in recent years, and spending on travel deals was estimated to reach £467 million in 2024.
If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud or cyber crime, contact your bank immediately and you can find where to report fraud here: https://stopthinkfraud.campaign.gov.uk/reporting-fraud
