According to IOL, South African Airways (SAA) has issued a warning to the public about a scam currently circulating on WhatsApp and Facebook, in which fraudsters falsely claim to offer heavily discounted or free flights through the airline.
The deceptive scheme promises a ‘90% discount’ on SAA tickets and directs users to payment links that are not associated with the airline.
The airline has emphasized that these offers are fraudulent and not linked to any official SAA promotions. In a notice shared on Facebook, SAA stated:
‘We have been alerted to a WhatsApp and Facebook scam offering discounted tickets on SAA along with payment links. Please be aware that these offers are not associated with our airline. For safety and security, always verify information through our official channels,’
SAA is advising passengers to remain vigilant and only book flights through its official website or authorized travel agents. Additionally, the airline has urged anyone who encounters suspicious offers to report them directly to the SAA customer service team.
Tips to Stay Safe from Online Travel Scams:
To help the public stay protected against such fraudulent schemes, SAA has shared the following tips:
Verify the Source: Before clicking on links or sharing personal details, always check the sender’s authenticity. Look for verified accounts with a blue checkmark on social media profiles.
Research Offers: If a deal seems uncertain, conduct an online search for reviews or reports about the company or offer to ensure it’s legitimate.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Protect your online accounts with strong, distinct passwords, and avoid reusing them across different platforms.
Be Wary of Unrealistic Offers: Offers that seem too good to be true, like deeply discounted or free flights, should be approached with caution.
Check Links: Avoid clicking on links in unexpected messages or emails, as they may direct you to malicious websites designed to steal your information.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your online accounts by enabling two-factor authentication.
Report Scams: If you come across a scam, report it to the appropriate authorities and notify the company involved.
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