TOURISM is big business and often, potential travellers often scour the Internet looking for more information or even special deals and offers.
However, not all websites are equal and there has been chatter online of the existence of fake websites masquerading as official platforms.
Is it true that there are fake travel websites aiming to deceive consumers with fake information and offering dubious services?
VERDICT:
TRUE
In a statement Friday (Feb 21), the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry advised the public to be wary of fake websites masquerading as the ministry's official platform when searching for licensed travel agencies, reports Bernama.
The ministry added that it had detected two such fake websites so far.
It said these were likely created by irresponsible parties to deceive consumers with invalid information or run services that are not recognised by the ministry.
"The ministry views this matter seriously as it can mislead the public and has the potential to lead to fraud.
"The ministry is also taking appropriate action to address this issue, including working with the relevant authorities to block and shut down the fake websites," Bernama reported the ministry as saying in the statement.
The ministry also emphasised that all official information on tourism companies and licensed tour guides can only be accessed through the ministry's official website at https://www.motac.gov.my/.
Anyone with information on suspicious websites or who have fallen victim to fraud in this regard can file a complaint through the Public Complaints Management System (SISPAA) at https://motac.spab.gov.my/.
Complaints can also be submitted via email to ukk@motac.gov.my or by calling hotline 03-8000 8000. - Bernama
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