Action Fraud warns of Hajj fraud, as criminals target Muslims booking trips to Mecca.

• Up to 25,000 British Muslims will be booking trips to Mecca over the coming months to perform Hajj in the autumn.
• The total reported loss to victims was £185,967 between July and December 2018.
• The public are urged to check that their travel company is a member of a recognised association such as ABTA.

City of London Police is advising people booking trips to Mecca to perform Hajj this year, to take steps to ensure that they are not the victims of insurance fraud.

Up to 25,000 British Muslims will be booking trips to Mecca over the coming months to perform Hajj in the autumn.

Last year, in the period leading up to Hajj, there were 19 reports of related fraud made to Action Fraud, with total losses of £185,967.  Reports show that victims can lose anything from £1000 to £50,000.

Tips to help people avoid falling for hajj-related fraud include:

• Carrying out research – people shouldn’t book without carrying out some basic checks on their travel agency/tour operator. A recommendation from a friend or family member does not guarantee the authenticity of the outfit.
• Making sure the travel company used is a member of a recognised trade association such as ABTA.
• Checking that a flight-based package is ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority.
• Getting written terms and conditions to detail the contract with the travel company.
• Make sure the flight details, accommodation and Hajj visa are valid
• Establishing an auditable paper trail and keeping records of financial transactions. 

https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/news/action-fraud-warns-of-hajj-fraud-as-criminals-target-muslims-booking-trips-to-mecca-2