by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 8:00 AM ET, Fri March 20, 2026
Fraud targeting travel advisors is increasing, with industry organizations urging agencies to stay alert as scams become more sophisticated.
Global groups, including the World Travel Agents Associations Alliance, the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) and the Association of Canadian Travel Agencies and Travel Advisors (ACTA), have issued warnings about a rise in fraudulent activity.
Reported scams include stolen credit card bookings, impersonation schemes and phishing attacks designed to exploit travel agencies.
The trend is affecting both new and experienced advisors.
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Host agency Nexion Travel Group says education is the strongest defence.
“Education and awareness are critical in today’s environment,” said Jackie Friedman, CTC, CTIE, President of Nexion Travel Group. “We’re committed to helping our advisors recognize risks early and operate with confidence.”
The company provides members with fraud prevention training, alerts on emerging scams and access to a network where advisors can share experiences. It also runs “Fighting Fraud Fridays,” a program it says is focused on prevention strategies.
Supplier partners are also part of the process, Friedman says, particularly when it comes to verifying bookings.
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For example, Nexion works with tour operator partners to confirm that last-minute bookings are made by clients known to the advisor. Its SNAP Air Desk and mid-office systems also flag potential warning signs before tickets are issued.
“With this method, we’ve been successful in catching potential fraudulent tickets before they’re issued,” she said.
The warnings come as fraud continues to rise across the broader travel industry, prompting agencies to review internal processes and ensure advisors are equipped to spot red flags before transactions are completed.
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