Working in the holiday business is great, but we all know we have to be extra careful when it comes to scammers, and protecting your devices. Here are some tips about how to secure your devices against scammers.

What antivirus software are you running on your device to keep it secure?

Some recommended companies are Norton and McAfee. Both will look for and protect against anything harmful on your device. This also identifies any malware that may be installed on your devices without your knowledge. They do charge a subscription, but they’re worth it.

How often do you change your password?

It’s annoying to do, and especially to remember new ones, but changing your password ensures that if anyone has crept into your emails/accounts, that they will be kicked back out. It’s good practice to change your password often. Make sure they’re long enough, with a mixture of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

ChaletFinder will never contact you to ask you to change the portal password. We can do this for you, so get in touch with us if you need help. Scammers like to use this trick to get a password from you, and then log-in.

Don’t click on any suspicious links in emails

It sounds like an obvious one, but if you get an email where the link looks strange, don’t click on it. This can allow scammers to hack your email accounts. Even if there is only a little doubt, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Extra tips:

• Check your portal regularly
• Change your portal password as part of your monthly routine
• Report if your password has changed without your knowledge
• Check enquiries in your portal regularly to ensure all enquiries match to your emails
• Ask the ChaletFinder team if you would like assistance with any of the above

Here is a template we recommend on how to respond to holiday enquirers, who you are not sure are genuine:

[Dear Enquirer,

Thank you for your enquiry. Could you tell me a bit more about your requirements for your holiday, and about you so we can cater to your needs? Please let us know about the below:

• Date
• Where you’re flying from, and to
• How many people
• Are there any children?
• Do you have any food requirements?

Thank you,

Chalet Owner]

Watch out for prolific holiday scammers. Some examples include ‘David Meyer’ and ‘Karen Caliman’. ChaletFinder issue an automatic email to all enquirers stating the only 2 emails you will receive are from us, or the owner’s email address which is stated.

ChaletFinder are also taking extra security measures against scammers to keep you safe. If we can all do as much as we can, hopefully it will make for a secure and safe holiday experience for all.