An expert has issued a new warning about scammers posing as ticket inspectors on UK trains, alongside other security risks associated with rail travel. Magdalena Petrusic, a travel expert from London Tickets & Tours, has highlighted several scams and risks, including fake public Wi-Fi networks, targeting train passengers.
Petrusic advised caution when using public Wi-Fi at train stations, noting that many such networks are unencrypted, making it easier for hackers to intercept data. “Using public Wi-Fi when traveling through any train station is risky,” she explained. Hackers can intercept sensitive information like passwords, usernames, or personal details as you enter them on websites or apps.
She suggested avoiding public Wi-Fi or using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to protect data. VPNs make it more challenging for hackers to access information, offering an added layer of security.
Scams to Watch Out For on UK Trains
Petrusic also warned of a number of other scams targeting train passengers, especially in areas popular with tourists, such as London and Manchester:
Wi-Fi Scam
Fake public Wi-Fi networks are a growing concern in popular areas. Scammers create unsecured networks that appear legitimate, but when passengers connect, hackers can easily steal their personal data.
Fake Train Ticket Inspectors
Scammers have been known to impersonate ticket inspectors, claiming that a passenger’s ticket is invalid before demanding payment on the spot. These fake inspectors may pressure passengers to hand over their card details for immediate payment.
Overpriced Taxis
Petrusic also warned about some taxi drivers who inflate prices or take unnecessarily long routes to overcharge passengers picked up from train stations. In some cases, drivers claim their meter is broken to trick unsuspecting travellers.
Fake Booking Websites
Fake booking websites are a widespread scam affecting everything from flights to train tickets. The expert emphasized the importance of ensuring that travellers use only trusted booking sites to make any purchases.
Card Skimming at Ticket Machines
Fraudsters often attach skimming devices to ticket machines to steal credit card information. Passengers can sometimes identify tampered machines if there are loose parts or extra attachments. To avoid falling victim to this scam, Petrusic suggested using contactless payment methods or official apps to purchase tickets directly on a mobile phone, bypassing the physical machines.
Staying Safe While Travelling
Petrusic urged passengers to be vigilant while travelling and to use official apps, contactless payments, and secure internet connections whenever possible. Her warning comes as tourism returns to pre-pandemic levels, with scammers increasingly taking advantage of busy areas like train stations and other public transportation hubs.
For those travelling by train, awareness of these scams could be key to staying safe and ensuring a worry-free journey.
