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  Geebo 8:01 am on June 17, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: identity theft ( 119 ), passports, Scams ( 1,524 ), travel, travel scam ( 2 )   

  Fake Passport Sites Steal Your Data 

  

  By Greg Collier

  As international travel ramps up during the busy summer, scammers are exploiting time-sensitive travelers through deceptive passport and visa renewal websites. These fraudulent sites mimic the appearance of official U.S. government pages in order to trick users into paying for services and documents that should be free.

  The scams are designed to appear as legitimate resources, often using patriotic color schemes, official-looking language, and imagery that resembles government branding. People rushing to renew their documents may not notice the subtle warning signs, such as disclaimers stating the site is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of State. Many end up paying $88 for forms that are freely available through official government channels.

  These sites also gather a wide range of personal information under the guise of processing travel documents. This may include names, birthdates, addresses, and even Social Security numbers. Often, consumers receive nothing more than a PDF containing the same information they provided, which they still must take to a government office to complete the process. The fee is essentially for repackaging publicly available forms, while also exposing users to the risk of identity theft.

  To avoid falling victim to these scams, travelers should take a few precautionary steps. Always check that the website address ends in “.gov” before entering personal information or making a payment. Government websites in the United States exclusively use the “.gov” domain. Taking time to visit the U.S. Department of State’s official site can help prevent costly mistakes and provide accurate information about current passport processing times. Researching a website through the Better Business Bureau’s Scam Tracker can also help determine if others have reported fraudulent activity.

  As tempting as it may be to cut corners when time is limited, rushing through online forms can result in wasted money and serious privacy risks. Scammers know that urgency creates opportunity. Travelers who take a few extra moments to verify where they are submitting their information can avoid becoming the next target.

   

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  Geebo 8:00 am on May 5, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: cybersecurity ( 38 ), evil twin attack ( 3 ), Scams ( 1,524 ), travel, wifi ( 3 )   

  Travel Abroad? Beware Fake Wi-Fi 

  

  By Greg Collier

  As economic concerns continue to affect consumer behavior, many travelers are reconsidering their summer plans. Domestic air travel is seeing a slight contraction, with several airlines recently announcing the cancellation of select routes within the United States. While this has caused frustration for those seeking to travel closer to home, international destinations, especially those in Europe, appear to be gaining momentum as U.S. carriers expand their global offerings.

  This uptick in overseas travel brings with it a host of new considerations, particularly when it comes to staying connected. International roaming fees from major U.S. carriers typically range from $6 to $15 per day, depending on the specifics of one’s plan and destination. To avoid these charges, many travelers opt to leave their phones in airplane mode and instead rely on Wi-Fi hotspots found in hotels, airports, and cafés.

  However, using public Wi-Fi networks comes with significant security risks. One of the more concerning threats is a tactic known in cybersecurity circles as the ‘evil twin’ attack. In such an attack, a malicious actor creates a fake Wi-Fi network that closely mimics a legitimate one, often using names that resemble trusted locations such as “Airport” or “Cafe_Guest.” Once a traveler connects to the fraudulent network, the attacker is able to intercept and monitor the data being transmitted. This type of intrusion allows them to collect sensitive information such as passwords, emails, and even financial data.

  This threat is particularly troubling because it is both simple and inexpensive for attackers to execute. Setting up a fake hotspot often requires little more than a laptop and freely available software. As international travel becomes more common during peak seasons, so too does the likelihood of encountering one of these fraudulent networks.

  To protect personal information while abroad, travelers are encouraged to avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi networks unless they are secured with a password and known to be legitimate. Device settings should be adjusted to prevent automatic connections to nearby networks, and file sharing should be disabled. It is also wise to refrain from accessing sensitive accounts while using any public connection.

  An added layer of protection can be achieved by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN), which encrypts internet traffic and helps shield it from interception. For those seeking more control over their internet access, a portable hotspot that uses a secured mobile data connection may also be a worthwhile investment.

  As more people prepare to travel internationally this year, awareness and caution are essential. A proactive approach to digital security can prevent costly and intrusive experiences and ensure that the memories made abroad are good ones.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on November 8, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: airport ( 5 ), Scams ( 1,524 ), travel, traveling ( 15 ), TSA, TSA PreCheck ( 2 )   

  Stay Safe from TSA PreCheck Scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  As the holiday travel season approaches, millions of people are preparing for flights to visit loved ones or enjoy a vacation. Unfortunately, scammers are also gearing up to take advantage of the increased demand for TSA PreCheck enrollments and renewals. These fraudulent schemes are designed to steal your money and personal information by mimicking official government websites. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself during this busy time.

  TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program designed to streamline security screening for low-risk passengers at U.S. airports. Enrolling in the program allows you to enjoy a faster, more convenient airport experience. With TSA PreCheck, you can pass through security without removing your shoes, belts, or light jackets, and your electronics and liquids can stay in your carry-on bag.

  The program is available at more than 200 airports and works with over 85 participating airlines. Enrollment involves a straightforward application process, including an online form, an in-person appointment for fingerprinting and identity verification, and a fee. Once approved, your PreCheck status is valid for five years.

  Scammers create fake TSA PreCheck sites that look alarmingly similar to the real thing. These fraudulent pages often appear in emails or online ads, urging users to enroll or renew their TSA PreCheck membership. They may even claim to simplify the process for a fee. However, these sites are nothing more than elaborate traps to steal your money and sensitive information.

  The scam often starts with an email or ad directing you to a website that looks like the official TSA PreCheck site. The key difference is that the URL is slightly off, often a cleverly disguised misspelling or a domain ending that isn’t ‘.gov’. Once on the site, users are prompted to pay for enrollment or renewal. But instead of providing a legitimate service, the scammers pocket your payment and potentially misuse your personal data.

  Even experienced individuals have nearly fallen victim to these schemes. The sophisticated design and persuasive language of these fake sites can easily trick someone who isn’t paying close attention.

  The TSA emphasizes that the only official place to begin your PreCheck enrollment is on their website, which ends in ‘.gov’. Any other domain, no matter how convincing it appears, is not legitimate. Additionally, the initial payment for TSA PreCheck is made in person, not online, during your in-person appointment at an enrollment center.

  Be wary of third-party ‘facilitators’ offering to handle the enrollment process for you. Not only do they charge exorbitant fees, but they also compromise your personal data, leaving it vulnerable to misuse.

  Before entering any personal or payment information online, double-check the website’s URL. If you’re unsure, reach out directly to the TSA or consult trusted resources like the Better Business Bureau’s Scam Tracker. By taking a moment to verify, you can avoid falling into the trap of these sophisticated scams.

  With holiday travel just around the corner, now is the time to ensure all your travel documents, including TSA PreCheck, are in order. Double-check every website, and only trust official government sources. A little caution now can save you from a major headache later, helping you focus on what really matters this season, enjoying time with family and friends.