Warning

We have recently been made aware of an uptick in bogus flight and travel advertisements circulating on Facebook, misleading customers into believing they are booking legitimate discounted flights through well-known international carriers such as Emirates.

We would like to take a moment to explain how the scam works, so that you may better advise your clients and stay protected.

• The target sees a Facebook ad promoting unbelievable airfare deals with major airlines.
• When they click on the ad, they’re directed to complete a short questionnaire:

  – “Are you flying in the next few months?”

   – “Are you over 65?”

   – “Enter your WhatsApp number to claim your deal.”

• A scammer initiates a WhatsApp call. In one reported case, the scammer asked the victim to “give a code sent via WhatsApp before we continue. Providing that code gives them remote access to your phone, effectively taking control of the device.
• The scammers often operate in loud and chaotic environments during the call, likely to create urgency and confusion.

What You Can Do:

• Speak to your clients about this specific scam trend.
• Reinforce the message: “If a deal looks too good to be true, it likely is.”
• Never share WhatsApp verification codes with anyone – even someone claiming to be from a legitimate airline or travel agency.
• Advise clients to check directly with their agent if they are ever unsure about a travel offer.
• Encourage clients to verify social media promotions by visiting official airline websites or calling their advisor directly.
• Consider including a short “Travel Safely” reminder in your correspondence, warning against scams.

If you or your clients suspect that a scam is in progress, we urge you to report it immediately to the South African Cybercrime division or your local police station.

Thank you for your continued vigilance in protecting our industry and your clients. Please share widely, and let’s keep each other informed.

Kind regards,

The ASATA Team