Travel agents are being targeted by fraudsters, falsely claiming to represent Iata.
The phishing scam involves fraudulent emails requesting that agents pay outstanding balances.
“Unfortunately some companies have been victimised and have transferred substantial amounts of money to bank accounts designated by fraudsters, after having been misled by the fraudulent references and use of Iata’s logo and name,” Iata said in a statement.
Agents are urged to email information.security@iata.org whenever in doubt as to the authenticity of Iata communications.
Commonly used email fraud techniques include:
• Fraudsters contact users by email or telephone, under false names, sometimes using similar or identical names as those of Iata officials, seeking payment for products or services and/or claiming payments for outstanding amounts due.
• The fraudsters use an email address resembling Iata email addresses but using different host servers such as gmail.
• The fraudsters may also use forged documents bearing the Iata logo or include links in the email to a fake website.
• Always be wary of requests to update bank account information.
Agents can also log enquiries on www.iata.org/customer.
