I will have to stop going on holidays because tons of travel news is unearthed when I’m away! Anyway, a big thanks to Kevin May, Editor of Travolution for sending me this interesting travel news story.

Reports circulating today about TripAdvisor’s new - unofficial - role as a good old fashioned police officer for the travel industry. The Metropolitan Police website says two people have been charged following investigations into the activities of a holiday firm in London.

It turns out, according to reports, that the fraud squad was alerted to alleged problems with a Fleetwood Holiday Ltd and Sun Orient Ltd after seeing posts on TripAdvisor’s forums.

The police have even gone so far to request information from any consumers that have booked holidays on the following websites: Sunmedresorts.com, Unbeatableholidays.com, Holidaysforunder200pounds.com, Holidayrez.com and Holidayez.com.

According to some of the forum posts, the Daily Express, GMTV and Meridian TV have already run stories on the supposed scam. It is also understood that the Association of British Travel Agents has been working with police for quite a few months, since concerns were raised by consumers.

If you think you have been affected by this scam then please complete the Met Police’s feedback form. The police also recommend that you should;

a) call your credit card company and advise them of this transaction. Discuss whether to cancel the card or not. Ask them to send out claim forms. They will deal with under consumer credit act.

b) if you have paid by other means i.e. debit card ask about the chargeback service and if by cheque, if it has not cleared place a cancellation on the cheque. If you need further advice on your consumer rights call Consumer Direct on 0845 40 40 506.

• Credit card companies Freeze Spending whilst Abroad
• Help protect yourself against Holiday Scams
• Currency options whilst abroad
• Last minute holiday advice

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