How to Avoid Being Scammed by Fake Car Rental Websites?

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A new one has been added to the many fraud methods that have come to the agenda in recent years: Fake car rental websites. There has been a lot of news recently about these structures that lure consumers by promising below-market rental prices by copying the websites of corporate car rental companies and creating a reliable front face. We have compiled information about this fraud method, in which many well-intentioned users are victimized, and what you should pay attention to in order not to fall into the trap of these fraudsters.

How does the system work?

Scammers who copy the websites of reliable and well-established car rental companies attract the attention of consumers with attractive prices and campaigns. These sites, which have the appearance of a functional car rental website and attract traffic with digital advertisements, serve much more actively, especially during busy periods when it is difficult to find a rental car. Fraudsters, who constantly change their web addresses and phone numbers on the site, can thus operate for a very long time without being caught and victimize hundreds of consumers.

How to spot fake car rental sites?

So, what should users pay attention to in order to understand whether these sites are real or not and to avoid falling into the trap of scammers? A few important details make a big difference.

• First of all, make sure that the website you are visiting is a secure site with an https extension. Moreover, always pay attention to the URL (web address) of the website you are visiting. Scammers use URLs that resemble the names of large car rental companies and copy the designs of these sites to create the image of a reliable page. For this reason, you need to be very careful about which link you click on and which website you visit.
• Since they cannot use legal payment methods such as online payment with a credit card, these sites have a structure that directs the consumer to make a transfer to certain account numbers during the rental phase. Not renting a car from any site that does not have a reliable online payment infrastructure can prevent you from falling into the network of scammers.
• Corporate car rental companies prepare contracts that secure both you and the cars. These contracts are part of the rental service and moreover, they are indispensable. We recommend that you definitely take a look at this contract on the websites you visit.
• Always visit the contact page on the website and check if there is a corporate call center number on the site. This will also be an important sign for you, as scammers usually share a cell phone number instead of a fixed number.
• Do not send a down payment, wire transfer the rental fee to a personal account, etc. before the rental is completed.
• Always search for the name of the company you will rent from on search engines. Visit their social media accounts and check how long they have been active.

All these are simple measures that will protect you from becoming a victim of scammers. Most importantly, stick to RentiCarfor car rental and easily access the most variety of cars at the most affordable prices in almost every corner of Turkey.

While you embark on new discoveries, RentiCar offers solutions to your car rental needs with different options. Enjoy Life on the Road with RentiCar!