With cashback offers on purchases becoming increasingly popular among UK consumers, experts caution against letting the allure influence spending habits. In parallel, the spike in online travel scams post-lockdown prompts a call for vigilance among UK holidaymakers.
Cashback schemes, where consumers receive a percentage of their purchase cost back, are becoming increasingly popular in the UK. These schemes span a range of products, offering 1-10% returns on purchases including pet food and insurance. Credit and debit cards often provide these cashback rewards, with American Express and Lloyds’ Everyday Offers being notable examples.
Third-party providers, such as Airtime Rewards or TopCashback, represent another cashback avenue, giving automatic cashback when shopping with particular retailers. These services offer premium memberships that promise higher cashback percentages. However, it’s advised not to let the cashback prospects overly influence spending habits given there’s no absolute guarantee of receiving the payment, making it wise to regard cashback as a potential bonus rather than a certainty.
Simultaneously, UK holidaymakers are being alerted to an increase in online travel scams. The rush to book vacations post-lockdown has led to a surge in fraudulent activity, with experts like Simon Calder advising vigilance. Warning signs of a scam include unbelievable low prices, inappropriate demands for personal documents, disconnected or incongruous contact details, suspicious marketing, and pressure to pay quickly, particularly through bank transfers.
Calder recommends thorough checks and caution when booking travel, emphasising the use of safer payment methods as a precaution. This guidance aims to help travellers avoid financial losses and ensure their holiday booking experiences are legitimate and secure.