Tourists urged to be cautious when booking accommodation
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Date: 2025-03-17 13:08:45

Tourists urged to be cautious when booking accommodation

ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
16 MARCH 2025
 
TOURISTS URGED TO BE CAUTIOUS WHEN BOOKING ACCOMMODATION
 
EThekwini Municipality warns tourists to be extra vigilant when booking accommodation and not fall victim to online scammers as Durban remains a popular tourist destination, especially as the Easter holidays are approaching.
 
The warning comes after tourists from Mpumalanga and Gauteng Provinces were scammed and left stranded after falling prey to criminals.
 
Durban Tourism and the central Community Tourism Organisation assisted the victims to open a criminal case with the South African Police Service and get alternative accommodation. 
 
“Durban is renowned for its scenic beauty and beaches and has seen an increase in tourism during peak holiday seasons post the COVID-19 pandemic. Unfortunately, scammers have also taken advantage of this growth by creating fake websites, social media pages, and holiday packages that appear legitimate,” said eThekwini Municipality Spokesperson Gugu Sisilana.
 
In its continuous endeavour to be a caring city, eThekwini Municipality has the following safety tips for holidaymakers;
 
*Always keep your bags where you can see them.
*Use reputable exchange bureaux or banks to exchange money or cheques.
*Do not publicise your valuables like jewellery, camera or cellphone.
*If you require any information, police officers and tourism information officers will gladly assist.
*Beware of your surroundings.
 
Some of the common scams include fake accommodation listings on online platforms offering non-existent or unavailable accommodation.
 
There are also phishing scams in the form of emails or messages, requesting payment or personal information under the guise of confirming bookings or itineraries.
 
Tourists are urged to verify travel bookings by using reputable booking platforms.
 
Holidaymakers can also verify accommodation establishments by contacting Durban Tourism. 
 
If you suspect a scam, report it to local authorities immediately before making any payments.
 
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Communications Unit.