Irish holidaymakers scammed out of nearly €100 million

People are being urged to be ‘on alert’ this summer.

There was a 16% increase in fraudulent activity last year, with Irish consumers being robbed of €98.6 million while booking holidays abroad.

According to a payment fraud report by BPFI, card fraud accounted for 95% of transactions and while other types of fraud had lower volumes, they saw more money being lost by consumers.

Transfers, where criminals stole victims’ banking details, made up only 3% of transactions, but over a third of the losses at €34 million.

BPFI is urging Irish holidaymakers to be extra vigilant this summer and to be cautious when booking both travel and accommodation.