Wisconsin BBB warns travelers of airfare scams ahead of July 4

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- As Independence Day approaches, the Wisconsin Better Business Bureau is warning travelers about an increase in airfare scams.

Jim Temmer from the BBB joined us on Monday, July 1 to discuss the fact that scammers are taking advantage of the holiday travel surge by creating fake airline ticket booking sites and customer service numbers.

Reports to the BBB Scam Tracker reveal that these scams often involve fabricated flight cancellation notices, prompting travelers to pay for rescheduling. Scammers also pose as customer service representatives, charging fees for non-existent services.

Travelers are advised to double-check URLs and phone numbers before making any payments. Using secure websites and verifying details with official airline contacts are also said to be important to avoid these scams.

The BBB urges consumers to report any suspicious activities, and to visit their online travel headquarters for more detailed advice.