For Immediate Release:
July 3, 2019

County offers reminders to avoid vacation scams

FREEHOLD, NJ – Whether residents are traveling to sightsee, sunbathe or swim, the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders offers residents tips to take extra measures while planning a family vacation to avoid vacation scams and mishaps.

“It is so important that people research and carefully read travel offers that are commonly advertised on the internet, social media and various apps,” said Freeholder Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the Division of Consumer Affairs. “If one does not read the fine print, then that hard-earned vacation has the potential to turn into a nightmare.”

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) offers these suggestions for safe travel:

• Look up travel companies, hotels, rentals and agents with the words “scam,” “review” or “complaint.”
• Look for extra costs. Resort fees can add $50 or more to your nightly cost.
• Ask about taxes, which may be significant in many locations.
• Get a copy of the cancellation and refund policies before you pay.
• If one buys travel insurance, be sure the agency is licensed.
• Bring copies of any confirmation details that show the rate and amenities you were promised.
• This also helps if the hotel or host says your reservation is “lost.”
•  Use a credit card for your travel spending.
• This gives you more protection than paying by cash or debit card and it may be easier to dispute unauthorized charges.

“In addition to the threat of travel scams, please be mindful of identity theft and only travel with IDs and credit cards that are needed,” said Freeholder Burry. “On behalf of the Board of Chosen Freeholders, I urge all residents to report scams, identify theft and any other fraudulent experiences to the Division of Consumer Affairs.”

For more information about the Division of Consumer Affairs, go to www.VisitMonmouth.com, call 732-431-7900 or email ConsumerAffairs@co.monmouth.nj.us. The office is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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