Summer Scams and How to Avoid Them

Written by:

Alexis Maynard

Reviewed by:

• Erin Frizell

As the temperatures rise and vacation plans take shape, scammers ramp up their efforts. Summer brings new opportunities for fraudsters, from fake travel deals and vacation rental scams to phishing texts about package deliveries and utility bills. 

At WeStreet, we want to help you enjoy the season without becoming a victim of fraud. Here are common summer scams and practical ways to protect yourself. 

Vacation Rental Scams 

Planning a summer trip? Fraudsters create fake rental listings using fake pictures and unbeatable prices to catch your eye. 

Warning Signs: 

• Prices a lot lower than similar properties 
• Requests for payment via wire transfer, gift cards, or payment apps 
• Pressure to book immediately or lose the deal 
• Listings with limited reviews or little information 

How to Protect Yourself: 

• Book through reputable rental websites. 
• Read reviews carefully and verify the property’s address. 
• Pay with a credit card. 

Travel Deal Scams 

Scammers know people are trying to find affordable vacations and often advertise unbeatable deals. 

Warning Signs: 

• Requests for immediate payment 
• Unsolicited calls, emails, or social media messages promoting travel packages 
• High-pressure sales tactics 

How to Protect Yourself: 

• Research travel companies before booking. 
• Verify offers directly with airlines, hotels, and tour operators. 

Package Delivery Scams

Online shopping is popular for summer essentials. Scammers send fake texts claiming there’s an issue with your package delivery. 

Warning Signs: 

• Text messages claiming a package is delayed or undeliverable 
• Links directing you to unfamiliar websites 
• Requests for personal or payment information 

How to Protect Yourself: 

• Track shipments through official carrier websites. 
• Avoid clicking links from suspicious texts. 
• Contact the shipping company directly if you’re unsure. 

Utility Scams

Cooling costs skyrocket during the summer months. Scammers take advantage by posing as utility companies. 

Warning Signs: 

• Threats of service disconnection 
• Demands for payment by gift card, cryptocurrency, or wire transfer 
• Requests for immediate payment over the phone 

How to Protect Yourself: 

• Contact your utility provider directly using the number on your bill. 
• Never make payments using gift cards or cryptocurrency. 

Seasonal Job Scams

Many students and seasonal workers look for temporary employment during the summer. Unfortunately, scammers target job seekers with fake opportunities. 

Warning Signs: 

• Offers that promise high pay for minimal work 
• Requests for training costs 
• Employers asking for banking information before hiring 
• Interviews done through text or messaging apps 

How to Protect Yourself: 

• Research employers before applying. 
• Never pay to secure a job opportunity. 
• Be wary of requests for sensitive information early in the hiring process. 

Stay Alert This Summer

Protect your finances this summer by staying informed, remaining cautious, and verifying requests before taking action. We’re here to help keep your financial information safe so you can focus on enjoying the season. Need assistance? Visit our Fraud Center!