by Tom Bastek
Last updated: 2:30 PM ET, Mon March 23, 2015
Photo via Wikipedia
Today WestJet announced that they have become aware of a scam involving discounted airfare to an upcoming conference in the United States. The scam claimed to have flights for up to 50 percent lower than fares available through westjet.com. Once a conference attendee would accept the offer, the scammers would buy the tickets with stolen credit card numbers, which invalidates the ticket.
So the conference goers are out the money and the ticket. And because WestJet was not involved in the purchase they are not responsible to make good on the tickets, either.
"This scheme validates the steps we take to monitor transactions in an effort to protect our guests and our company from unscrupulous people," said Alexis Gunderson, WestJet Team Lead, Fraud Investigation. "It also shows that the old adage is more appropriate today than ever before: if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. It's important to do your homework before purchasing your flights. The lowest WestJet fares are those advertised on westjet.com, and travelers should avoid suspicious-looking deals advertised elsewhere. Ensure you are getting exactly what you paid for by booking your flights and vacation packages directly with an airline or tour operator, your preferred travel agent or other reputable travel service provider."
WestJet fraud investigators discovered the scam while doing routine checks of their credit card transactions. Apparently at least 100 people have accepted the offer. WestJet is working with law enforcement authorities for further investigation.
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