FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE :  Wednesday, December 19, 2012
CONTACT:  Sara Rabern (605)773-3215   

 
Attorney General Jackley Offers Tips to Avoid Travel Scams

PIERRE, S.D.-   As the weather remains cold outside and consumers look to travel to warmer climates, Attorney General Marty Jackley warns those consumers to be cautious of travel offers that sound too good to be true.

Whether you are a college student looking forward to spring break or just someone wanting to get away for a long weekend in the sun, follow these tips to avoid getting burned:

• Work with a reputable travel company, preferably one that is local.
• Be very cautious of those companies that sound like other companies with similar names, verify if the company is legitimate.
• Be realistic - be wary of unsolicited mailings, phone calls or emails offering a “free trial” or a “free trip”.   If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
• Read the fine print and understand the terms and conditions of the service you are purchasing, specifically, their cancellation and refund policies.
• Use a credit card for payment, never cash or check. Get confirmation numbers and documentation for all planned flights, hotels and other travel arrangements.

If you are a victim of this type of scam or would like additional information contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at 1-800-300-1986 or consumerhelp@state.sd.us.

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