This Fourth of July marks the 246th Independence Day celebration since the ratification of the U.S. Constitution in 1776. While American society has changed drastically in the two-and-a-half centuries since then, the holiday is an opportunity for individuals and businesses to reflect on their history and celebrate the future. However, as is typical during every holiday, it is crucial to remain aware of scammers looking to use Independence Day festivities to con people out of their money.
Independence Day scams typically take form in one of the following ways:
Travel and rental scams
Some families take the Fourth of July holiday as an opportunity to travel to cities that are hosting Independence Day parades, celebrations or firework displays. Unfortunately, after spending the time and resources to travel to the city, some travelers find that they are unable to enter the rental they paid for or communicate with the property owner.
In 2021, one consumer reported to BBB Scam Tracker that after driving three hours to attend a Fourth of July celebration they could not get into the home they rented or communicate with the owner.
“After learning we couldn’t get into the rental, we drove to the local office for (the rental agency) and they were closed,” the consumer reported. “A woman who worked nearby said we were the third family that week to…
