Ah, yes! The change of seasons and the looming trip to our favorite vacation spot for Spring Break 2025! You are anxiously looking forward to fun in the sun, on the slopes, or maybe hiking in the mountains. Regardless of your destination, you hope a relaxing week awaits.

Unfortunately, fraudsters see this time of year as a fertile opportunity for scams. Here are a few things to be aware of and to look out for when planning and enjoying your spring break.

About That Reservation

Many times, fraudsters will impersonate a real estate agent or property management company with a request for an additional deposit or a notification of a change in the payment terms. They may also create a fake travel site or attempt a “bait and switch” on the property you are reserving. Make sure to contact the provider at a number you know to verify any change in payment terms or property address. 

Watch Out for Fakes

These don’t always equate to a large amount of money, but the fraudsters love these scams on things like lift tickets, and equipment and boat rentals. They may ask for payment by one of the person-to-person payment platforms or even gift cards, but when you arrive you learn that your tickets are fake or the item you reserved doesn’t exist. 

Hidden Fees

Before you click on the “I agree” button, read the fine print carefully to ensure there are no unexpected costs or loopholes.

High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Fraudsters use confusion and high pressure to entice you to act immediately to avoid losing this “fantastic” opportunity.

If it’s ‘Too Good To Be True …’

The old saying “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is” definitely applies. We’re all looking to save money but make sure you investigate so you don’t lose money.

Your spring break vacation can result in a significant expense. Make sure you are spending your money wisely and creating positive family memories, and not regrets, by watching for these common spring break scams.

Jeff Taylor is head of Commercial Fraud Forensics for Regions Bank.