This variation involves fraudulent offers of free or discounted vacations using company names like Expedia, Air Canada, Transat, WestJet and others. The potential victim receives a cold call, usually automated, advising that they have won a destination vacation. Alternatively, they are told that as a preferred customer, they have been awarded a credit or discount on a destination vacation if they book immediately. Once the potential victim proceeds with the call, they will be asked to provide personal information to book the vacation and a credit card number to make a deposit/payment to guarantee the trip.
Warning signs - How to protect yourself
- An unknown caller tells you that you've won a contest you didn't enter.
- You receive a call advising that you've won a free vacation but have to provide a credit card number to cover taxes before receiving the vacation.
- Ask for the caller's name and for a call back number. If they won't provide one, red flag.
- Never give out personal information or credit card information over the phone.
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