TL; Dr:
- Fake airline publicity and ticket scams are especially growing on social media and unlicensed websites.
- Out of the authorities
N b DGCA, and airport security warns passengers to verify the agencies, avoid extreme discounts and book only through official channels. - Main red flags: unrealistic low fare, vague contact information, final-minute offering, and unknown payment methods. Always check your PNR with the airline to confirm the booking.
Passengers in Kuwait are rapidly targeted by fraudsters offering fake airline deals, especially during travel spikes. The National Bank of Kuwait (NBK), in partnership with Central Bank, and Kuwait Directorate General General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued warnings to passengers to be careful of suspicious proposals, especially advertised through social media or shady websites.
General fraud strategy
- Show local websites with Kuwaiti numbers
Some fake platforms show Kuwaiti landline numbers and claim validity, but use fake trade addresses. Violations include fake reservation system and issuing tickets at unauthorized prices.
- Fake ticket reservation through electronic platforms
In particular, passengers cost millions of dinars in fake booking through apps or websites during Eid or holiday season. The report indicates 3,000 complaints annually, with 80% of foreign run servers.
- Illegal middleman and freelancer listing
Vendors with unlicensed sellers on WhatsApp or freelance advertisements often entice the victims with large discounts before disappearing after payment. This includes confirmation of fraudulent ticket sales and unacceptable booking.
How to save yourself: Specialist Tips
- Book only with verified sources
Always book flights directly through airline sites or certified travel agents with DGCA and Ministry of Commerce.
- Do not be dazzling with incredible discount
If the price looks much below the ideal, consider it as a red flag, it can be a scam using stolen or fraud card information.
- Verify booking with PNR and Airline
Immediately after procurement, see your PNR code on the official site or app of the airline to confirm the validity. Avoid tickets without verification booking references.
- Avoid loose payment channels
Do not pay through bank transfer, crypto, WhatsApp pay or third-party freelancers. Opt to platforms with safe, tracedable payment methods.
- Review rules and contact details
Valid agencies provide policies to issue addresses, hotline numbers and clear tickets. Contact information or absence of social pages only, is a warning signal.
why it matters
- Many victims came to know that their tickets were invalid to the airport check-in, which lost money and disrupted the journey.
- Kuwait officials initiated enforcement action against the unlicensed agencies selling tickets.
- Education campaigns such as NBK’s “Let’s B Aware” are essential in reducing fraud, strengthening the need for cautious consumer behavior.
In Kuwait’s growing scam scenario, it is important to fully rely on licensed sources for airline booking. Avoid deep-discount offers from freelancers or inconvenient agencies, always check PNR, and make sure your payment is safe and detected. Government and bank officials recommend vigilance on any online promotion that probably feels great to come true. Your safest journey begins with certified partners and confirms the booking position.
Fasting
- 1. How can I tell if a ticket promo is fake?
Ultra-Lo rent, fuzzy contact information, final-mint travel dates, and uncomfortable agents, see general scam indicators.
- 2. How do I confirm that my ticket is real?
Use your booking reference (PNR) on the official website or app of the airline immediately after the purchase.
- 3. Can I use a freelancer or small agent?
Avoid them without official license or clear contact details. Only use verified travel agents supported by DGCA.
- 4. What should I do if I suspect a scam?
Report the seller with the Department of Consumer Protection (Hotline 135), and DGCA with your booking copy.
- 5. Are payment methods safe?
Use safe credit card or payment gateway with challan; Do not pay through bank transfer, crypto or private individuals.
