Travel website warns customers about AI-generated booking scams
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Travelling is one of the greatest pleasures of life, as it allows everyone to indulge in different cuisines, immerse in new cultures, and take a breather from daily life.
As the excitement builds for your next destination, it's crucial to stay vigilant against the latest wave of threats that could turn a dream adventure into a nightmare.
Marnie Wilking, Booking.com's Chief Information Security Officer, raised the alarm about a surge in online phishing scams using generative AI to create convincing yet fake communications.
During the Collision Technology Conference in Toronto, Wilking revealed some startling statistics.
'Over the last year and a half, throughout all industries, there's been anywhere from a 500 to a 900 per cent increase in attacks, in phishing in particular, across the globe,' she said.
Phishing scams are a form of cyber attack where scammers trick individuals into handing over sensitive information like passwords or credit card information.
Travel websites like Booking.com are particular targets for these scammers, as travellers provide personal and financial information when making bookings.
'Of course, we've had phishing since the dawn of email. But the uptick started shortly after ChatGPT got launched. The attackers are definitely using AI to launch attacks that mimic emails far better than anything that they've done to date,' she added.
Wilking warned that hotel owners, often eager to assist customers, may inadvertently open email attachments that contain malware, thinking they are responding to a guest's needs.
To combat these threats, Wilking advises travellers and hosts alike to adopt two-factor authentication (2FA) for an added layer of security.
While setting up 2FA can be daunting, it remains one of the most effective defences against cybercrimes like phishing.
This security measure requires a username, a password, and a second form of verification, such as a code sent to a mobile device or generated by an app like Google Authenticator.
Moreover, Wilking emphasised the importance of exercising caution with every click.
'Don't click on anything that looks suspicious, even if you think it might be real. If there's even a little bit of doubt, call the property, hosts, and customer support,' she stated.
Booking.com and other major travel companies are not sitting idly by.
They are actively employing AI to counteract these scams.
These AI models could detect, block or remove fake property listings set up to scam users with too-good-to-be-true deals.
While the involvement of suspected state actors in targeting travel sites remains relatively low, it is a growing concern.
These actors may have motives beyond simple financial gain, such as espionage or causing mischief.
As you plan your next holiday, remember that a bit of caution goes a long way.
Keep your wits about you, secure your devices with 2FA, and always double-check before clicking links or sharing personal information.
Have you encountered any suspicious activity while planning your travels online? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below.
As the excitement builds for your next destination, it's crucial to stay vigilant against the latest wave of threats that could turn a dream adventure into a nightmare.
Booking.com, a leading figure in the online travel industry, issued a warning about the rise of sophisticated travel scams made with artificial intelligence (AI) that are targeting unsuspecting globetrotters.Marnie Wilking, Booking.com's Chief Information Security Officer, raised the alarm about a surge in online phishing scams using generative AI to create convincing yet fake communications.
During the Collision Technology Conference in Toronto, Wilking revealed some startling statistics.
'Over the last year and a half, throughout all industries, there's been anywhere from a 500 to a 900 per cent increase in attacks, in phishing in particular, across the globe,' she said.
Booking.com is a website where travellers worldwide can book accommodations during their holidays or business travels. Image Credit: Shutterstock/Ekkamai Chaikanta
Phishing scams are a form of cyber attack where scammers trick individuals into handing over sensitive information like passwords or credit card information.
Travel websites like Booking.com are particular targets for these scammers, as travellers provide personal and financial information when making bookings.
'Of course, we've had phishing since the dawn of email. But the uptick started shortly after ChatGPT got launched. The attackers are definitely using AI to launch attacks that mimic emails far better than anything that they've done to date,' she added.
Wilking warned that hotel owners, often eager to assist customers, may inadvertently open email attachments that contain malware, thinking they are responding to a guest's needs.
To combat these threats, Wilking advises travellers and hosts alike to adopt two-factor authentication (2FA) for an added layer of security.
While setting up 2FA can be daunting, it remains one of the most effective defences against cybercrimes like phishing.
This security measure requires a username, a password, and a second form of verification, such as a code sent to a mobile device or generated by an app like Google Authenticator.
Moreover, Wilking emphasised the importance of exercising caution with every click.
'Don't click on anything that looks suspicious, even if you think it might be real. If there's even a little bit of doubt, call the property, hosts, and customer support,' she stated.
Booking.com and other major travel companies are not sitting idly by.
They are actively employing AI to counteract these scams.
These AI models could detect, block or remove fake property listings set up to scam users with too-good-to-be-true deals.
While the involvement of suspected state actors in targeting travel sites remains relatively low, it is a growing concern.
These actors may have motives beyond simple financial gain, such as espionage or causing mischief.
As you plan your next holiday, remember that a bit of caution goes a long way.
Keep your wits about you, secure your devices with 2FA, and always double-check before clicking links or sharing personal information.
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