Make Vacation Memories—Not Costly Mistakes

Summer is peak vacation season, and for many families, that means booking a beach house, cabin, or condo instead of a traditional hotel. Vacation rentals can offer more space, more flexibility, and often a better value—but they can also attract scammers looking to take advantage of travelers eager to reserve the perfect getaway.

Before you click "Book Now," take a few simple steps to protect your money:

• Stay on trusted booking sites. If someone asks you to pay outside the platform for a "better deal," that's a major red flag.
• Use a credit card. It typically provides stronger fraud protection and dispute rights than wire transfers, gift cards, or many payment apps.
• Verify before you book. Use Google Lens to reverse-search listing photos and read reviews for patterns—not just star ratings. Repeated complaints about hidden fees, misleading photos, or poor communication are worth noting.
• Don't let urgency rush you. Scammers often pressure travelers to "book now" or change payment instructions at the last minute. Legitimate hosts won't mind if you take a few extra minutes to verify the details.

A little research today can help ensure your vacation is remembered for sunsets and family photos—not fraud and frustration. And if you ever notice suspicious charges or think you've been targeted by a scam, contact your financial institution right away. Acting quickly can make all the difference

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