A business traveller in a foreign city looking lost. Picture: Pexels
As a business traveller, you carry more than just your laptop and a positive attitude. Between your tech, your corporate credit cards and that nice watch you wear to impress clients, you could be toting around R50 000 to R200 000 in value.
That’s quite the tempting target for those with less-than-honest intentions.
According to Bonnie Smith, GM of Corporate Traveller, business travellers are particularly vulnerable to scams because they often have their guard down. “They’re thinking about work, not about potential threats. That’s where a lot of problems can start,” she highlighted.
Smith said that to add to that, many business travellers are operating on tight schedules, often sleep-deprived and may be unfamiliar with local customs and potential risks.
“It’s a perfect storm that scammers are all too happy to exploit,” she said.
So, what are these scams targeting business travellers, and how can you avoid them? Smith highlights these pitfalls and how to avoid them.
The taxi trick
The business travel expert revealed that inflated taxi fares are one of the most prevalent scams and they occur right as you step off the plane.
She noted that unscrupulous taxi drivers may take advantage of a traveller’s unfamiliarity with the local area by taking unnecessarily long routes or using rigged meters and this scam can significantly inflate transportation costs.
“Use reputable transportation services. Many TMCs can arrange reliable airport transfers for their clients. If you must take a taxi, ask your hotel for a fare estimate beforehand,” she advised.
The wi-fi woe
Smith noted in today’s always-on business world, wi-fi is like oxygen but that free hotel or café wi-fi might come with a side of data theft.
She said that cyber-criminals set up fake wi-fi networks with names like ‘Free Airport Wi-Fi’ or ‘Hotel Guest Network’ and when you connect, they can see everything you’re doing online.
As a tip, she recommended using a VPN when connecting to public wi-fi.
“It’s like an invisibility cloak for your data. Better yet, use your phone as a hotspot,” she said.
The currency con
Smith also advised business travellers to be careful if they need to exchange some money because this is prime hunting ground for scammers.
She added that you might get offered great rates by a street vendor, only to end up with counterfeit bills or less money than you should have received.
“Stick to official exchange bureaus or use ATMs inside banks,” recommended Smith.
The ‘free gift’ fiasco
According to the business travel expert, this scam starts with a friendly local offering you a bracelet or taking your photo and next thing you know, they’re demanding payment.
She added that once you accept the ‘gift’ the scammer pressures you to pay for it and sometimes, it’s just a distraction so an accomplice can pick your pocket.
“Good TMCs brief their clients on local customs and common scams. It’s like getting a cheat sheet for the test of travel,” said Smith.
The rogue booking blunder
According to a visa survey, with one in five consumers experiencing travel fraud and holiday scams, which is up 7% in the past year, bypassing your company’s travel programme is risky business.
Smith noted that you might think you’ve found a great deal on an online travel agency (OTA) but beware as scammers create fake listings on OTAs or social media with stolen photos and fake reviews.
She added that you pay for a non-existent reservation or fall victim to identity theft through a fraudulent booking site.
“Stick with your corporate travel programme. It uses verified channels, reducing fraud risk. Your travel manager can find suitable options within your budget while keeping you protected, because all accommodation is vetted.
“When you book outside the system, you lose crucial safeguards against sophisticated scams,” she said.
If you do get scammed, Smith said advised not to beat yourself up if you’re up about it.
“Report it to local authorities promptly, then contact your bank or credit card company. Inform your company directly and document everything for insurance purposes,” said Smith.