FTC travel warnings.

Don't get scammed on your next trip

Have you received an unbelievable travel deal through the mail or by fax? Or, have you been lured by a cheap vacation package on the Internet? Stop. That deal may be a scam, warns the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

In fact, vacation seams are on the rise. They rank among the top 10 complaints to the FTC. The commission and 19 state agencies recently filed 85 actions against travel promoters who are accused of such actions as falsely telling people they had won a free trip, refusing to administer refunds, and concealing costs.

Also, beware of new Internet scams on auction sites from people claiming they have frequent flier miles or tickets to sell. Regardless of what's advertised, you are not legally allowed to sell frequent flier miles or use a ticket that has been purchased in someone else's name. In addition, avoid seam artists that try to sell phony travel agent identification cards. Consumers are told they can buy credentials that allow them to pose as a travel agent and obtain discounts on airfares and hotels rooms that are available only to travel agents--not so!

And avoid free travel inducements that insist you take out a credit card or membership. The credit card or membership fees will be so high that they offset any potential savings. Katz advises that consumers not deal with companies who won't let you use a credit card since this could prevent you from disputing questionable charges with a credit card company. Most of all, if a deal seems too good to be true, it's probably a seam. Report unsavory travel practices to the FTC at 877-FTC-HELP or www.ftc.gov.