Donna J. Jodhan is a world renowned advocate, author, blogger, sight loss coach, dinner mystery writer and producer, entrepreneur, law graduate, and podcast commentator.
Donna has been in the business since 2000 and her many roles have allowed her to recognize that there is a growing need for consumers and clients to be made aware of some of the most dangerous and popular scams.
Donna herself has been unwittingly scammed over the years a few times and now she is using her skills, experience, knowledge, and expertise to help others avoid pitfalls and heartache.
And as a vision impaired professional and person she is ready to help you stay ahead!
Donna knows only too well how much we all need to work overtime to protect the most vulnerable from those unscrupulous scammers!
Please read her latest suite of scams and she would love to hear from you with your own feedback.
Travel scams spike in August because it’s peak vacation season—crowded airports, busy tourist spots, and lots of people booking last-minute trips. Scammers know travelers are distracted and unfamiliar with local norms. Here are three common scams to watch out for. ✈️
1. Fake “Vacation Rental” Listings 🏠
How it works:
Scammers post fake listings for vacation homes or apartments on legitimate-looking sites or social media. The price is usually much cheaper than similar places, and they pressure you to send a deposit quickly.
Warning signs
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The host asks for payment outside the booking platform (wire transfer, gift cards, crypto).
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Photos look like stock images or appear in multiple listings online.
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The host refuses to show reviews or claims the listing was “just posted.”
How to avoid it
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Book through trusted platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com.
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Reverse-image search the property photos.
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Never pay outside the official site.
2. “Friendly Stranger” Distraction Theft 🎭
How it works:
In busy tourist areas, someone approaches you pretending to help—asking for directions, offering to take a photo, or pointing out something on your clothes. While you’re distracted, a partner steals your wallet or phone.
Common places
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Crowded landmarks
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Train stations
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Outdoor festivals and summer markets
How to avoid it
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Keep valuables in a zippered or anti-theft bag.
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Use a money belt or inside pocket.
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Stay alert when someone gets unusually close.
3. Taxi or Ride Overcharging 🚕
How it works:
A driver claims the meter is broken or takes a long route to inflate the fare. In some cities, fake taxis wait outside airports and charge tourists huge prices.
Warning signs
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Driver refuses to use the meter.
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No official taxi markings or ID.
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Price quoted far higher than normal.
How to avoid it
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Use trusted ride apps like Uber or Lyft.
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Check the expected fare on a map before getting in.
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Use official airport taxi stands.
✅ Quick traveler tip:
August is also when “closed attraction” scams appear—someone near a tourist site says it’s closed and tries to redirect you to an overpriced shop or tour. Always check official websites or signs first.
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Contact info:
Visit our websites at http://www.sterlingcreations.ca
http://www.donnajodhan.com
http://www.sterlingcreations.com
Email us at donnajodhan@sterlingcreations.ca
Or call us at 416 491-7711