Watch out! This latest TSA scam targets holiday travelers
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As the holiday season approaches, airports bustle with eager travelers with various places awaiting their arrival.
But before getting to your dream destination, there are processes that you need to comply with, such as the TSA prechecking.
Nothing could truly stop scammers, though, as they take advantage of this process to take advantage of people.
Let's unpack this devious scheme and ensure your holiday travels are not only joyful but secure!
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) PreCheck program is a legitimate service that offers travelers a faster way through airport security.
However, scammers are exploiting the program's popularity by sending out fraudulent emails, posing as the TSA and offering expedited screening privileges.
If the traveler falls prey to this scheme, they provide their personal and credit card information, hopeful of attaining a shorter wait time through airport security.
In reality, aside from finding your bank account emptied by these fraudsters, you may also face the embarrassment and frustration of being denied PreCheck status when you arrive at the airport.
The FTC has issued a clear warning: you cannot sign up or pay for the TSA PreCheck application fee solely online. The process must be completed in person at an official TSA enrollment center.
While renewals can be done online, new applications require your physical presence.
So, how can you spot this scam and protect yourself? Here are some telltale signs:
1. Unsolicited Emails or Texts: If you receive an email application or text about TSA PreCheck enrollment, be wary. Official communications about such services are rarely, if ever, initiated via email or text.
It’s important to remember that you will only receive reminder emails after registering for Prechecking through the official TSA site.
2. Suspicious Links: Never click on links from unknown sources. The FTC strongly warns travelers that “A scammer’s link will take you to a scam site that looks real, but if you pay and give your information, the scammer will steal it.”
3. High-Pressure Tactics: Scammers often create a sense of urgency, pushing you to act quickly. If you're being rushed to complete an application or make a payment, it's a strong indication of a scam.
While on the subject of scams from fraudsters posing as government officials, remember to always be cautious about your transactions. Scammers go to new lows to con money from victims. Learn more about another scamming strategy in this story.
Source: Hearst Television / Youtube
Have you or someone you know encountered a scam like this? What measures do you take to protect your personal information when preparing for travel? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
But before getting to your dream destination, there are processes that you need to comply with, such as the TSA prechecking.
Nothing could truly stop scammers, though, as they take advantage of this process to take advantage of people.
Let's unpack this devious scheme and ensure your holiday travels are not only joyful but secure!
Experts are warning travelers about a scam involving fake TSA PreCheck sign-up emails. Image source: Pexels.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) PreCheck program is a legitimate service that offers travelers a faster way through airport security.
However, scammers are exploiting the program's popularity by sending out fraudulent emails, posing as the TSA and offering expedited screening privileges.
If the traveler falls prey to this scheme, they provide their personal and credit card information, hopeful of attaining a shorter wait time through airport security.
In reality, aside from finding your bank account emptied by these fraudsters, you may also face the embarrassment and frustration of being denied PreCheck status when you arrive at the airport.
The FTC has issued a clear warning: you cannot sign up or pay for the TSA PreCheck application fee solely online. The process must be completed in person at an official TSA enrollment center.
The Federal Trade Commission advises that legitimate TSA PreCheck applications must be finalized in person. Image source: Pexels.
While renewals can be done online, new applications require your physical presence.
So, how can you spot this scam and protect yourself? Here are some telltale signs:
1. Unsolicited Emails or Texts: If you receive an email application or text about TSA PreCheck enrollment, be wary. Official communications about such services are rarely, if ever, initiated via email or text.
It’s important to remember that you will only receive reminder emails after registering for Prechecking through the official TSA site.
2. Suspicious Links: Never click on links from unknown sources. The FTC strongly warns travelers that “A scammer’s link will take you to a scam site that looks real, but if you pay and give your information, the scammer will steal it.”
3. High-Pressure Tactics: Scammers often create a sense of urgency, pushing you to act quickly. If you're being rushed to complete an application or make a payment, it's a strong indication of a scam.
While on the subject of scams from fraudsters posing as government officials, remember to always be cautious about your transactions. Scammers go to new lows to con money from victims. Learn more about another scamming strategy in this story.
Source: Hearst Television / Youtube
Have you or someone you know encountered a scam like this? What measures do you take to protect your personal information when preparing for travel? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
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