summer holiday scams police warning tenerife

Summer holiday scams: Police warn Tenerife residents of bank SMS fraud

Police warn of summer holiday scam targeting bank customers

Summer is just around the corner, and many people in Tenerife have already started planning their holidays, hoping to escape the daily grind and make the most of their days off during the hottest months. Yet even at this time of year, cybercriminals are lurking, ready to take advantage of holiday bookings. The National Police have issued a warning to the public about the potential scams they may face when making summer holiday reservations. “We will explain what to look out for so you don’t become a victim,” the force has said.

How the scam works

“You have booked a trip online, and a few hours later you receive this message from your bank,” the National Police begin. When you book a holiday—whether it is a flight, accommodation, or excursions—your phone soon starts receiving discounts and alerts about things to do during your getaway. However, one message that sets alarm bells ringing for many is the one supposedly from the bank. After completing the booking, some people may fall victim to a fraud and receive a text message “informing them of a direct debit payment for the cost of their reservation, along with a phone number to call to get in touch with them”.

The fake SMS in detail

The message appears to come from the bank and notifies the victim of an important alert. The authorities show that it reads: “Direct debit of 3,000 euros from account for unknown trip. Call… department Ref-091009.” “Be careful, this is a scam. Your bank will never ask you to call them via a text message. And they will certainly never ask you for sensitive information,” the officer warns.

Urgency is the key tactic

The police also stress that messages of this kind often use an urgent tone to make the victim act quickly and make a payment. Cybercriminals are taking advantage of people’s holidays to defraud them and ruin their time off. That is why it is important to stay informed. “And remember, if you are in doubt, go to the National Police,” they conclude.

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