Watch out for these spring break scams

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) - Scammers are aware that we’re approaching a period of high travel due to spring break.

They’re putting out sponsored ads and appearing on social media feeds to try to bait you into clicking on their “smoking hot deal.”

The Better Business Bureau says don’t let your guard down. Education is the best defense against these scammers, along with knowing what to look for.

That includes verifying website URLs carefully, being asked for personal information, being wary of unsolicited travel offers and taking time to research, even for last-minute changes.

Denise Groene of the BBB said fake Kansas Turnpike Authority toll scams are a big one to look out for right now.

”You will receive a text message that claims you owe money from a toll road,” Groene said. “Especially with spring break coming up, if you’re taking a road trip, you may receive this text message shortly after you come home from that trip. Be extremely cautious, do not click on any of the links in those text messages, and as always do not pay money to someone you don’t know.”

When it comes to online travel deals, Groene said the biggest tip she can have for any type of scam is to trust your gut and verify everything.

If it seems too good to be true, it likely is.