http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-2738039/Holiday-villa-fraud-thats-hit-countless-British-families-You-arrive-dream-villa-owners-never-heard-sent-cash-chillingly-plausible-conman.html


It is thought hackers may have stolen more than £25 million from holidaymakers — hundreds or even thousands believed to be British — in the past five years. And victims believe the police are doing little about it.

HOW TO MAKE SURE THAT YOUR HOLIDAY IS SAFE

Owners Direct and Action Fraud say following these simple tips will help you stay safe when renting a holiday home online:

    Ensure that you speak on the phone (not just by email) with the person renting the cottage. Any legitimate individual letting a property will provide their direct phone number on the  site — if they do not,  exercise caution.
    Never pay directly into a bank account until you verify that the owner is legitimate. Paying by direct bank transfer is like paying by cash — the money can’t be traced and is not refundable.
    Where possible, pay by credit card or a debit card that offers insurance — they are traceable and refundable, according to the provider’s terms and conditions.
    Check reviews on properties you are interested in to see what previous guests had to say about their experience.
    Ask for a rental agreement — a signed rental agreement between the owner and the guest helps protect both parties. Typically, each owner or manager has their own payment and cancellation policies and house rules.