Beware Front Desk Scam at hotels

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is warning hotel guests of yet another scam that is making its way around and involves an issue with their credit card.

The Front Desk Scam is a form of phishing, where the caller will try to obtain valuable credit card information by stating they are calling from the Front Desk of the hotel and needing to confirm particular details specific to a credit card.

In many cases, what the caller is looking for is a confirmation of the credit card number and the 3-digit security code located on the back of the card. If this information is provided, it can allow for a credit card to be made which could be used for fraudulent purchases.

The Canadian Anti – Fraud Centre (CAFC) has been informed and together, the OPP and the CAFC are suggesting that anyone who receives such a call should not provide any credit card details over the phone, but rather, should attend the hotel front desk to deal with the matter.

The scam is sneaky in that the scammer calls the hotel and asks to be put through to your room or they utilize an existing automated system within the hotel where they connect with you directly in an attempt to play out the scam. Often the guest is caught off guard and complies with the scammer as they imply that there is an issue involving your credit card information.

The OPP is using this incident to remind the public never give out any credit card information over the phone, ask for the name of someone you can speak to and if you are staying in a hotel and receive such a call, tell the caller that you will come down to the Front Desk in person to deal with the problem.

If it turns out there is not a problem with your credit card inform the hotel manager and contact to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre by visiting their website or calling 1-888-495-8501 to report the incident.