Passengers Urged to Keep Luggage Tags to Prevent Scams

Airport personnel are advising passengers not to discard their luggage tags in airport bins, as scammers are increasingly targeting travelers who may inadvertently expose their personal information. The warning highlights the need for caution amidst the usual rush of arriving at a destination.

Scammers Target Discarded Luggage Tags

As travelers navigate through bustling airports, the temptation to quickly dispose of luggage tags can be strong. However, a recent alert from an airport worker on Reddit emphasizes the risks involved. Many passengers remove their luggage tags upon arrival, often without considering the information these tags contain, which can include names, booking confirmation numbers, and destination details.

The airport worker, who shared their insights on the r/Delta subreddit, noted that discarded tags can fall into the hands of fraudsters. “We are getting an influx of fraudulent claims being submitted for ‘missing items’ as these people are observing who is removing their luggage tags in the claim areas and using your information to submit claims for reimbursement,” the user explained.

Such scams can lead to significant disruptions for legitimate travelers trying to reclaim lost or damaged luggage. The worker urged passengers to keep their tags until they return home, where they can be securely disposed of. “They can steal enough information from that to use your travel itinerary to get paid,” the post cautioned.

Protecting Personal Information

Criminals are able to exploit even minimal information found on luggage tags. In some cases, they create email accounts using real names to file fraudulent claims for compensation. A commenter on the Reddit thread noted that certain airports in Japan provide secure disposal bins specifically designed to protect travelers’ personal details.

This warning comes as authorities have also urged travelers to safeguard their boarding passes. Earlier in 2024, a man faced a $5,000 fine in the United States after boarding a plane with a boarding pass stolen from a child. The individual managed to photograph passengers’ mobile screens displaying their boarding passes, using one to board an aircraft before hiding in the lavatory. The situation escalated when a flight attendant spotted him wandering without a seat, prompting the plane to make a U-turn back to Salt Lake City Airport.

Incidents like these serve as a reminder for all passengers to remain vigilant about their personal information, even in secure environments like airports. Keeping luggage tags intact until safely at home and avoiding sharing boarding pass details on social media are simple yet effective ways to protect oneself from potential scams.

Travelers are encouraged to take these precautions seriously to ensure a smooth and safe journey. For those with stories to share or further questions, the public can reach out via email at [email protected].