HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELVES FROM FRAUD
No doubt you will all have read the latest horror story of a tourist family being let down by an operator. A common occurrence.
This happens mostly because customers are attracted to the lowest price – but be warned – the lowest price is often impossible to deliver a first class experience with and the only option is to short change you or in the worst case, not show up.
There are a few things you can do to protect yourselves:
Check the operator on Tripadvisor.
Ask for company details, registered address, company number.
Ask for bank declaration registered in company name.
When you pay money and before you travel, ask for copies of service vouchers from lodges and camps.
If public camping, ask for copies of the reservations in your group name.
Ask on this page if anyone has any experience of the company.
While the advice given highlights important steps for protecting against fraud, it’s crucial to note a few additional points:
1.Document Forgery: Even with detailed documentation, some unscrupulous operators can forge documents. It’s essential to cross-check these details with the lodges or camps directly to ensure authenticity.
2.TripAdvisor and Reviews: While reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor can be helpful, they can also be manipulated. Look for consistency in reviews across multiple platforms and seek out feedback from reliable sources.
3.This Page as a Resource: While asking for others’ experiences on this page can provide valuable insights, it’s important to remember that this is not an official arbitration or verification platform. Information here should be taken as part of a broader research effort rather than the sole basis for decision-making.
4.Legal Threats: It’s also important to foster a positive and supportive community. Using threatening language or creating a sense of deterrent may discourage genuine safari enthusiasts from engaging in discussions. Instead, let’s focus on sharing accurate information and constructive advice to help each other have safe and enjoyable experiences.
By combining these steps with the original advice, travelers can better protect themselves from fraud while maintaining a supportive and positive community.
