Beware of scammers

[Tom]

Members are warned to watch out for scams that occasionally show up, especially when they're sent to your email address or via a private conversation here in the forum.

A recent scam started when someone posed as a widow in need of a travel companion in a forum message; This in itself doesn't necessarily mean it's a scam and, in this case, several forum members and staff correctly replied with suggestions and links to forums/web sites/social media sites that cater specifically to solo travelers.

The individual proceeded to contact several forum members privately, inviting them to engage via email. This was a red flag that some forum members correctly reported to a forum team member. Further investigation by the conscientious team member confirmed the true intent on the individual.

Please do not fall for this kind of private contact, and please report any similar behavior you see here.