“The emails offer incredible deals to international and local destinations across all airlines," says Bezuidenhout. “But it is all hot air.” He adds that over the past week Mango, along with other carriers, have seen a renewed flood of invalid bookings sold to unsuspecting consumers.
“In just two days we have had to decline eight travellers whom purchased bookings from Ramsay. This is just on our airline; I shudder to think what these fraudsters have achieved across all airlines, domestically and internationally."
“Earlier this year Mango issued a consumer advisory, warning South Africans about the scam, after which public awareness dampened the activities. However, it seems that Ramsay and company are trying their luck again,” says Bezuidenhout.
Mango along with other industry players will continue to co-operate with authorities. “Prevention is always the first defence against crime and I would like to urge consumers to ensure that they only engage with airlines through official websites, call centres and travel agents or of course in person."
