NAIROBI, Kenya- Tourists and travelers beware!
There’s a rising trend in scams involving fake social media accounts impersonating airlines, leaving many travelers vulnerable to data theft and financial fraud.
According to the consumer association Which?, deceptive accounts exist for most airlines on X.
These scams are exploiting the frustrations of customers trying to resolve travel issues online.
The Rise of Fake Airline Accounts
Which? has highlighted a concerning increase in the number of fake airline accounts on X.
These accounts are created to trick customers into divulging personal information. The social media platform has a policy against misleading and deceptive identities, stating that such accounts may be permanently suspended.
However there are claims that X has been too slow in taking down these offending accounts, with many still active.
How the Scam Works
The scam typically targets frustrated customers seeking help online. Scammers use bots to monitor social media for customer queries directed at airlines.
They then quickly respond using fake accounts, mimicking official language and requesting personal information under the guise of offering assistance.
Scammers often request sensitive data or direct victims to phishing websites to harvest credit card details.
Some fraudsters even claim that customers are entitled to compensation or ask for a small fee to resolve the issue.
Protecting Yourself from Social Media Scams
It’s crucial to stay alert and protect your personal information from these sophisticated scams.
Ensure you are communicating with verified airline accounts and never share sensitive information over social media.
By staying informed and cautious, you can avoid falling victim to these fraudulent schemes and enjoy a stress-free travel experience.
