Warning over 'nightmare' bargain holiday offers

Travellers who book online are at risk of seeing bargain "dream holidays" turning into a nightmare, it was revealed yesterday.

As many as 30 per cent of online bookers fail to confirm the authenticity of their travel providers, a survey by the government-backed body GetSafeOnline.org and travel organisation Abta found.

Also 22 per cent of the 1,000 adults polled do not check if their web page is secure when booking. And 36 per cent say they do not track and check the payments in their bank or credit card statements after making a booking.

The survey also found that 22 per cent say they have been approached with holiday deals or villa rentals via unsolicited e-mails, phones calls or text messages from individuals or organisations they do not know.

Tony Neate, managing director of GetSafeOnline.org, said: "When we've been working hard the rest of the year, for most people, making sure we have a great summer holiday is really important.

"Fraudsters recognise this and play on people's desires - we get caught up in the excitement of a 'bargain dream holiday' and cautiousness goes out the window.

"When things don't start to add up, that's when you really need to do your research."

Security Minister Dame Pauline Neville-Jones said: "Many people will be looking for last-minute holidays at this time of year and the internet can provide a great way of shopping around for bargains.

"However, in your rush to book a holiday you should make sure you are not falling victim to online crime by taking some basic steps to protect yourself."