Is it safe to pay on Skyscanner?

Navigating the Safety of Payments on Skyscanner

Skyscanner, a popular travel search engine, offers an extensive database of flights from various airlines and travel agents. While its role is limited to providing this search functionality, it’s crucial to understand the intricacies of payments when booking through Skyscanner.

Third-Party Providers and Price Discrepancies

Skyscanner itself does not handle the actual transaction process. Instead, it redirects users to third-party providers, such as travel agents or airlines. This arrangement means that the displayed prices may not reflect real-time availability and may vary from the actual cost.

Potential Misleading Offers

Due to the reliance on third-party data, it’s possible for misleading offers to appear on Skyscanner. Unreliable vendors may intentionally present inaccurate or outdated prices to lure customers. This can lead to disappointment and financial loss.

Proceed with Caution and Verify Information

To ensure a secure and satisfactory booking experience, it’s essential to proceed with caution and verify information thoroughly before making a payment:

• Check Price Discrepancies: Compare prices from multiple sources, including the airline’s official website and other travel search engines. Significant differences should raise red flags.
• Research Vendor Reputation: Before booking, take the time to research the reputation of the third-party vendor. Read online reviews and check their Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating.
• Be Wary of Phishing Scams: Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments in suspicious emails claiming to be from Skyscanner. Phishing scams often attempt to steal sensitive financial information.

Alternative Payment Options

To mitigate potential payment risks, consider using alternative payment options such as credit cards with fraud protection or booking directly through the airline’s website. These measures provide additional security and recourse in case of any issues.

Conclusion

While Skyscanner is a valuable tool for flight search, it’s important to be aware of the limitations and potential risks associated with payments. By proceeding with caution, verifying information, and using alternative payment options, travelers can navigate Skyscanner safely and make informed booking decisions.