The rise of online scams continues to impact individuals, especially as more people turn to the internet for travel bookings, shopping, and financial transactions. Recent reports from KwaZulu-Natal highlight the growing concern, with tourists falling victim to scams in popular destinations like Ballito and Mandeni. Scammers have been using tactics such as fake accommodation listings, counterfeit tour packages, and phishing schemes to steal personal and financial information. While these scams have been a significant issue for tourists, they are a reminder that online fraud can affect anyone, anywhere.

Understanding the threat: phishing and social engineering 

Phishing attacks, which deceive individuals into revealing sensitive information, are a key component of many online scams. These attacks can come in the form of emails, social-media messages, or even fake websites that appear legitimate. The aim is to manipulate the victim into providing personal information, such as credit card details, passwords, or social security numbers. 

Social engineering, a broader tactic, is often used alongside phishing. This involves manipulating human emotions, such as urgency or fear, to trick individuals into acting without thinking. Common examples include fake urgent notifications about payments, fake job offers, or scams promising unbelievable deals. 

The sophistication of these scams has evolved, with cybercriminals now using advanced tools like AI to create compelling fake emails or even mimic voices in voice phishing attacks. Scammers take advantage of the increased volume of online activity during holiday seasons, such as the Festive period, to prey on unsuspecting consumers. 

Why is it so easy to fall for these scams? 

The main reason people fall for online scams is that they often appear to come from trustworthy sources. Fake websites may look identical to legitimate ones, and scammers can easily manipulate email addresses or phone numbers to make their messages seem authentic. The urgency created by scammers further complicates matters, making people act quickly without thinking twice about the legitimacy of the offer. 

For example, tourists have reported receiving emails claiming that their accommodation bookings or guided tours need immediate confirmation. These messages often contain fake links that lead to fraudulent websites designed to steal sensitive data. Scammers use similar tactics to exploit individuals looking for exclusive deals or last-minute bargains. 

Garith Peck, Managing Executive: Cybersecurity at BCX, notes, “We are seeing an increasing trend in highly sophisticated scams that use advanced tools like AI to make fraudulent emails and websites appear more legitimate. Consumers must remain vigilant and critical of unsolicited offers and be wary of sharing sensitive information, especially when rushed into a decision. Simple precautions, such as verifying the authenticity of deals and using secure payment methods, can go a long way in protecting oneself from these types of fraud.” 

Tips to avoid falling victim to online scams 

Fortunately, there are several proactive steps you can take to protect yourself from becoming a victim of online fraud: 

1. Verify bookings and offers: Always double-check the legitimacy of travel bookings, especially when using unfamiliar platforms. Contact the accommodation provider or tour operator directly to confirm your reservation. 
2. Be wary of unrealistically cheap deals: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often lure victims with heavily discounted offers that are non-existent. 
3. Avoid sharing personal information: Never share personal or financial details in response to unsolicited messages, emails, or phone calls. Reputable businesses will never ask for such information this way. 
4. Check reviews and ratings: Always review feedback from other customers before making a purchase or booking. Scammers may create fake profiles to deceive you, but genuine reviews usually provide valuable insight. 
5. Report suspicious activity: If you encounter a scam or fraudulent activity, report it immediately to local authorities or the platform where the scam occurred. The sooner these activities are flagged, the sooner they can be investigated. 
6. Use secure payment methods: When making online purchases or bookings, use secure payment methods such as credit cards, which offer fraud protection. Avoid wire transfers or direct bank transfers unless you are sure of the recipient’s identity.

As more people engage with online platforms, scammers are adapting and using increasingly sophisticated tactics. Advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and deepfakes have enabled cybercriminals to craft more convincing scams, making it even harder to spot fraud. 

To combat this threat, cybersecurity experts like BCX emphasise the importance of both individual and organisational awareness. Companies are encouraged to invest in advanced threat-detection systems and implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to safeguard their platforms from phishing and social engineering. Consumers should also remain vigilant and stay informed about the latest scams circulating online. 

While online scams are a growing threat, the key to avoiding them lies in vigilance and awareness. By following the tips outlined above and staying alert to the risks, consumers can protect themselves from falling victim to these increasingly sophisticated attacks. Scammers are always evolving, but so are the tools and strategies to fight them. Stay cautious, verify your transactions, and always prioritise your online security.