Beware of travel fraud! AI technology helps scammers deceive consumers, travelers need to be careful
Industry experts warn travelers to be cautious when booking upcoming trips online, as scammers are using artificial intelligence to deceive consumers.
There are many different ways in which artificial intelligence is helping those who try to deceive others, "said Chadd Andre from Flight Centre Canada.
A travel fraud survey commissioned by Flight Centre Canada found that 32% of Canadians have been victims of travel fraud. Almost half (47%) are Generation Z travelers, with 17% admitting to being deceived by false listings.
According to the investigation, scammers use artificial intelligence to create fake accommodation lists and even forge reviews, impersonating online travel agents.
Andre said that travelers may think they are talking to a reputable agent when in reality, it is just a chatbot operated by a scam company.
When you search for a certain air travel company, some lists may pop up, or you may get a fake website or phone number, "Andre said.
Adhering to trusted travel brands, especially those based in Canada and supported by consumer protection agencies, is your best choice
Image source: unsplash@magellol
The Ontario Travel Industry Council (TICO) also believes that the travel industry is susceptible to the negative impact of artificial intelligence.
We are hearing more and more about websites and chatbots generated by artificial intelligence, so they do exist, "said Richard Smart, CEO of TICO.
Anyone who signs a contract with a TICO registered company may receive compensation in case of travel issues.
Smart recommends travelers to conduct their own research, avoid unknown companies on social media, and stick to choosing reputable travel agencies.
This doesn't mean you need to go to their physical store, the vast majority of bookings are made over the phone and online, that's no problem, "Smart said.
Earlier this year, Booking.com warned that travel scams related to artificial intelligence could increase by 900%.
Source link:
https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/nearly-one-third-of-canadians-have-fallen-victim-to-travel-scams-survey-1.7151305