As Eid approaches, many people go back to their hometowns. This is exploited by scammers to carry out their schemes, one of which is through airline ticket fraud.

Airline ticket fraud usually offers prices much lower than the market price. Scammers will trap their victims in various ways, such as through advertisements on social media, fake websites, or even through text messages.

The demand for airline tickets before Eid is bound to skyrocket. This is often exploited by scammers to carry out their schemes. Here are some airline ticket fraud schemes to be wary of:

1. Cheap Price Offers

Scammers offer airline tickets at much lower prices than the market price. Usually, they will use reasons such as "promo tickets," "leftover tickets," or "auction tickets." There are also member price tickets, a scam where they claim to be members of Traveloka or specific airlines to get cheaper tickets.

2. Fake Websites

Scammers create fake websites resembling official airline or trusted travel agency websites. These websites usually have designs similar to the real ones but have different URLs.

3. Text Messages

Scammers send text messages offering cheap airline tickets and ask victims to click links or provide personal data. These links usually direct victims to fake websites, and the personal data provided can be used for fraud.

4. Scams via Social Media

Scammers post ads on social media offering cheap airline tickets. These ads are usually made with attractive images and text to trap victims.

5. "Travel Agent" Scams

Scammers pretend to be travel agents and offer cheap airline tickets. They usually ask victims to make advance payments as a down payment.

6. "Refund" Scams

Scammers pretend to be airline representatives and offer airline ticket refunds. They usually ask victims to provide personal data and OTP codes.

With the high demand for airline tickets before Eid, the chances of falling victim to scams also increase. Here are some tips to avoid airline ticket scams before Eid:

1. Use Trusted Ticket Providers

Avoid buying tickets from unknown websites or unreliable agents. Make sure to book tickets only through reputable travel platforms with good reputations, such as Traveloka.

2. Be Cautious of Too Good to be True Offers

Be careful with airline ticket offers that seem too good to be true. Scammers often use overly tempting offers to lure victims. Make sure to do extra research before making a decision.

3. Use Secure Payment Methods

Always use secure payment methods, such as credit cards or trusted online payment systems. Avoid transferring cash or making payments in unclear ways. Remember that Traveloka only uses the company account name under PT Trinusa Travelindo if you still want to use bank transfer payment methods.

4. Beware of Fake Emails and Calls

Be cautious of suspicious emails or phone calls claiming to offer cheap airline tickets. Never provide personal or financial information via email or phone to unknown parties.

5. Already Scammed? Report It!

If you've already become a victim of airline ticket fraud, the first step is to immediately contact the airline or travel agency where you bought the ticket. Report the incident and ask for assistance in getting a refund or valid ticket.

Furthermore, report this incident to authorities such as the police or consumer protection agencies to get legal assistance. Stay calm and cooperate with authorities and airline or travel agency representatives to find the best solution.

If you become a victim of fraud claiming to be Traveloka, you must always #CheckAndReject suspicious information. Get reliable information only through Traveloka's official channels. So, as an Anti-Scam Warrior, learn how to eradicate fraud through this link.