- 18 Feb, 2025
When people are in a rush, they do not care much about what is happening in their surroundings; they become ignorant and careless, which makes them an ideal target for scammers. Scams have to be the last thing anyone can think of, but these scammers are clever, and they know how to use the opportunities to steal cash, personal information, and other belongings. To not fall into their pits, you must know about the rules and steps that will save you from falling right into the traps. In this article, we will discuss the types of scams you can face, and we will also know about the precautions and measures you should consider to save yourself from these scammers.
1. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Hacking
Public Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections at airports can be a lifesaver, but on the other hand, they can make you vulnerable to cyber-attacks. What scammers do is they create a fake Wi-Fi or Bluetooth device to impersonate your device or connection name, and once you are connected, you will be exposed.
How to avoid it?
Turn off your Wi-Fi before arriving at the airport, and verify the airport's Wi-Fi from its website or ask a staff.
2. QR Code Phishing
Square-like grids that can be scanned through your device can also make you vulnerable to attacks. In airports, such phishing is often done and is known as quashing. When you scan these fake QR codes, they redirect you to a fraudulent website that can steal your private information.
How to avoid it?
Scammers cover the actual QR code with stickers that can be identified by touching; if it feels unusual or a little raised, then don't scan it.
3. Payment Card Fraud
Payment cards, including credit or debit cards, are convenient for making purchases, but scammers use this opportunity to steal your money and financial information. Card users always remain a target in front of the scammers.
How to avoid it?
Fraudsters install skimmers in ATM machines or Card readers to capture data. To protect yourself from these attacks, you have to check the keypad and card slots for unusual attachments.
4. USB charging attacks
USB charging attack or Juice jacking is also a common type of attack in the airport. When your battery runs low, you might plug the cable or your charger to the nearest slot you'll see, but this could lead to data breaches that can't be detected.
How to avoid it?
You can bring your own charger and plug it only into the power socket, or you can bring a power bank to charge your device.
5. Travel Document Fraud
Some people share their photos of their documents and boarding pass on the social media and it may seem harmless, and those images can reveal the crucial information. Scammers can use this information for fraudulent activities.
How to avoid it?
Criminals use these images to create fake documents and to avoid it; they avoid sharing the documents on social media and disposing of the used ones.
6. Lounge Pass Scams
You might think that lounges are the place where you can chill and have some snacks but you are not safe there either. Some lounges require lounge pass apps to access, and scammers make fake documents to steal your money and personal information.
How to avoid it?
Download the applications from the official source and not from any unverified links, and also be cautious about the app permissions.
7. Taxi and Car rental scams
Flights can be tiring, and after the completion, you look for a source to reach your destination. Taxi drivers can overcharge you, steal your luggage, or even skim your payment card, and some companies may sneak in some extra charges as well.
How to avoid it?
If you are pre-booking, verify the drivers, inspect the car's damage and documents, and book the transportation through verified apps and sites.
8. Luggage Scams
At the airports, it happens a lot when a stranger might start up a conversation and end up stealing your luggage. In another case, they may ask for access baggage fees after your luggage is screened, or they may plant an alien object like drugs or stolen items in your bag.
How to avoid it?
To avoid it, you must only carry your own luggage, keep an eye on your stuff, and also avoid giving your bag to strangers.
9. Currency Exchange Scams
When passengers are looking forward to an exchange of their currency, vendors may ask for unfavorable rates or try to shortchange them. Some vendors can also give you fake money and steal your real currency.
How to avoid it?
To avoid Currency Exchange scams, get the currency from local banks and credit unions or online currency exchange platforms and only use licensed ones. You can also consider the local ATMs and Banks.
10. Fake Airport or Airline staff
Scammers can also impersonate officials, wearing fake uniforms or badges to look real. They can also create fake phone numbers, company websites, emails, and social media platforms. By impersonating the staff, they can fool you into handing over your money and personal information.
How to avoid it?
Scammers avoid the official workplace so that they do not get detected; if you need assistance or have any doubts, consider asking an official worker. Scammers can also create fake websites or social media platforms to make you believe that they are legit; all you have to do is ensure that you are on the company's official website.
Conclusion
Your ignorance or carelessness can harm you because that is what makes people the ideal targets for scams. Instead of trusting anyone you see, all you have to do is open your eyes and identify; it is not that difficult to differentiate between the real and fake. Secure yourself by knowing about the methods that will help you from these scammers. It is crucial to stay informed and understand the typical methods these tricksters use. It is very important to scan your surroundings and maintain a cautious mindset to prevent these mishaps.
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