• Stay safe online: Check the web address is legitimate and has not been altered by slight changes to a domain name – such as going from .co.uk to .org
• Do your research: Don’t just rely on one review - do a thorough online search to check the company’s credentials. If a company is defrauding people there is a good chance that consumers will post details of their experiences, and warnings about the company.
• Look for the logo: Check whether the company is a member of a recognised trade body such as ABTA. You can verify membership of ABTA online, at www.abta.com
• Pay safe: Never pay directly into an owner's bank account. Paying by direct bank transfer is like paying by cash – the money cannot be traced and is not refundable. Where possible, pay by credit card, (or a debit card that offers protection).
• Check paperwork: You should study receipts, invoices and terms and conditions, and be very wary of any companies that don’t provide any at all.
• Use your instincts: If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Report it: Victims who are British residents should contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via www.actionfraud.police.uk

It is also often safer to book directly with the hotel. Most major brands and even smaller brands do price-matching schemes, especilly if you join their rewards club (most are free). Find a good rate on an online travel agent’s site, then find the hotel’s number from their main website. Ring them to book the accommodation directly and ask them to price match.

The same can be done with most major airlines.

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Tony Neate, CEO, Get Safe Online said: “A Holiday is often the most expensive thing people will purchase in a given year. So, take your time and do as much research as you can to check that the provider is safe.

"It is often much easier to find proof a company is legitimate than evidence they are fraudulent.

"Most importantly, never transfer directly into bank accounts. None of these scams will work unless you hand over your money!"