POLICE have issued a warning about online holiday bookings after a number of people fell victim to a Donegal holiday home scam.
The PSNI said it had received 20 reports linked to the Facebook Marketplace holiday accommodation swindle.
The scam, which first came to light in May, involves the fraudulent use of images of genuine holiday accommodation in Donegal to reel in unsuspecting victims.
Those behind the scam have placed adverts on Facebook Marketplace for a holiday home that victims have booked and paid deposits of between £100 to £500 for.
They believe they are paying for a holiday rental in Co Donegal but, in reality, they have been scammed.
Once the victim has transferred the funds, the scammer blocks them on social media, preventing any further communication and leaving the victim out of pocket with their hopes of a dream getaway dashed.
Police are also aware of a similar-type scam operating online with four reports made in relation to bogus holiday accommodation in Portrush, with victims paying deposits of between £100 and £200.
Superintendent Gerard Pollock, chair of the Scamwise NI Partnership, said: “As the cost of living increases and more of us are holidaying at home, it’s understandable that people go in search of the best deal.
“However, what can appear as a bargain holiday on a social media platform or an online advert, is all too often the start of a scam, which will cost you…
