Friday, February 20, 2026

Black Friday warning issued as £11 million lost to holiday fraud last year

As Black Friday kicks off today, shoppers all over the world are gearing up for the biggest sales event of the year. With countless holiday deals on offer, it’s no surprise that people are eager to take advantage of the discounts and book their dream vacations. However, the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has issued a warning to travellers to be cautious when booking trips during this sales period.

Black Friday, which originated in the United States, has now become a global phenomenon. It marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season and is known for its massive discounts and deals. This year, it falls on November 26th and is expected to be bigger than ever before. With the ongoing pandemic, many people are looking forward to a much-needed break and are hoping to snag some great travel deals during this time.

However, the CAA has raised concerns about the potential risks involved in booking trips during the Black Friday sales. According to the authority, many travel companies may use this opportunity to lure customers with attractive deals that may not be as good as they seem. In some cases, these deals may not even be legitimate, and travellers could end up losing their hard-earned money.

The CAA has advised travellers to be extra cautious and do their research before making any bookings. They have also urged people to be aware of the terms and conditions of the deals they are considering and to read the fine print carefully. This is especially important when it comes to flights and accommodation, as there may be hidden fees or restrictions that could end up costing travellers more in the long run.

In addition to this, the CAA has also warned against falling for last-minute deals that seem too good to be true. These deals may be offered by companies that are not ATOL (Air Travel Organiser’s Licence) protected, which means that if the company goes bankrupt, travellers may not be able to get a refund or be brought back home. It’s essential to book with reputable and ATOL-protected companies to ensure the safety and security of your trip.

The CAA has also advised travellers to be cautious when booking through third-party websites or agents. While these platforms may offer attractive deals, they may not always be reliable, and travellers may end up facing issues with their bookings. It’s always best to book directly with the airline or hotel to avoid any potential problems.

Despite these warnings, the CAA has also acknowledged that there are genuine and legitimate deals available during the Black Friday sales. They have advised travellers to take advantage of these deals but to do so with caution. By being vigilant and doing thorough research, travellers can still score great deals without putting themselves at risk.

In conclusion, as Black Friday kicks off today, it’s essential for travellers to be careful when booking trips during this sales period. While there are undoubtedly great deals to be found, it’s crucial to do your due diligence and book with reputable and ATOL-protected companies. By following these precautions, travellers can ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday without any unexpected surprises. Happy shopping and happy travels!

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