Thousands of British holidaymakers were cheated out of almost £7m through booking scams last year, according to new figures.

Data from City of London Police shows that 4,700 reported victims in 2017 lost an average of £1,500, with the cases worth a total of £6.7m.

The average loss represents an increase of more than a quarter on 2016, with most scams taking place during the summer and December, and related to airline tickets and accommodation bookings.

Almost half of those affected said the fraud had a significant impact on their health or financial well-being, with some 575 victims claiming they were left in need of medical treatment or at risk of bankruptcy.

Image: Fraudsters are using 'sophisticated' tricks to catch people out online

Mark Tanzer, chief executive of the Association of British Travel Agents, said: "The cost to them is not just financial. This crime causes very real disappointment and emotional distress."


Another spike is expected this summer, especially around sporting events like the World Cup, as fraudsters target peak holiday periods when it is harder for prospective tourists to find bargains.

They catch people out through what Action Fraud have warned are "increasingly sophisticated tricks", including setting up fake websites, hacking into legitimate accounts, and posting bogus adverts online.

Image: Sporting events like this summer's World Cup are expected to be a target

Tony Neate, from Get Safe Online, advised: "It can be quite tempting to get lured in by the offer of a cut-price flight or a deal on accommodation when you are caught up in the excitement of booking a holiday.

"Small steps can stop you getting caught out by a holiday scam, such as researching the company you are booking through, especially ones that aren't mainstream operators.

"Check well known review sites too so you can see what previous customers' experiences have been and, where possible, pay by credit card to get extra protection in case anything does go wrong."