Action Fraud said it received reports from 6,640 purchasers in 2023, with Hertfordshire police alone dealing with 99 incidents totalling £481,000 – meaning each consumer lost an average £4,861, the highest in the UK.
Now police fear Black Friday could spur an increase in scams. Oliver Shaw, City of London Police temporary commander for fraud and cybercrime, said: “This Black Friday, shoppers will be eager to snap up the best holiday deals and that means fraudsters will be targeting people looking for their next trip away.
“We encourage Black Friday shoppers to stay vigilant to online fraudsters trying to catch people out by offering cheaper prices or unrealistic deals on social media and online marketplaces.”
Police have urged consumers to search for industry logos including Abta and Atol. The advice says: “Make sure they’re a licensed company and check that they are properly accredited.”
Consumers are also being urged to pay with credit cards and avoid paying by bank transfer.
A poll of more than 2,000 UK adults at the start of November found Britons were planning on spending an average £2,525pp on their next summer holiday.
Michael Budge, the CAA’s head of Atol, said: “In the run up to Black Friday, we are encouraging people to research thoroughly before booking their next holiday, as there can be a risk of getting caught out by hidden costs and extras, or potentially booking with fraudulent companies.
“We urge consumers to check for Atol protection, book by credit card where possible and take out travel insurance to offer layers of financial protection for their next package trip.”
