As temperatures rise, so do summertime consumer scams. While you’re trying to plan your summer getaway, vacation, concert or festival, scammers are hard at work trying to ruin your day and separate you from your money.
You can protect yourself and avoid getting burned this summer by staying alert to these common warm weather scams.
Travel & Rental Scams
If that enticing discount price on a summer rental sound like a dream come true, well it might be. Scammers will post fake photos on legitimate websites to lure you in and take your money. That private messages you received on social media or in your email claiming to be a friend or relative saying they must sell a non-refundable trip due to an emergency may be someone posing as them. Don’t respond directly that friend or relative through your normal, trusted way.
Concert & Event Ticket Scams
You’re looking to buy tickets to the summer concert tour by your favorite artist or for the annual music festival or art fair you always attend. Scammers are also looking, but to dupe you into paying them. They create fake websites or social media ads to sell phony or non-existing tickets to these events. What might look legitimate turns out to be worthless and you are now left out of the event and out of pocket. Make sure you deal directly with the venue or trusted ticket retailers.
Pool Installation Scams
You might decide that this summer you want to stay home and create their own backyard getaway by installing a pool. If you’re in the market for a pool this season, beware of advertised prices that are well below what other companies are charging and make sure to pay with a secure payment method. Consumers looking for a quick turnaround or a budget friendly alternative may find themselves high and dry if they are not careful.
Moving Scams
Many families either relocate to their summer residence or rental. Others may even make that move to a new home over the summer school break. While moving scams can occur anytime, fake moving companies heat up their efforts after school lets out. These scams often involve low-ball estimates compared to other moving companies. Be wary of moving companies unwilling to provide references or who shy away from discussing details of the move before providing an estimate. Search for online reviews to learn about their customer service history.
Protect Yourself and Turn Up the Heat If Necessary
If you feel like you have been burned by summer scammers, taken advantage of or notice any unusual activity on your credit card or personal accounts act. Contact 360 Consumer Law to find out your rights and how you can fight back.
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