Cyber scams target summer tourists

AUSTIN (KXAN) - The No. 1 travel problem is sharing too much on social media sites, according to Austin’s Better Business Bureau.

• Tips: Safe summer road trip
• Photos: 10 great getaways for grownups

People are alerting the world when they’re out of town, opening themselves up to burglary and other crimes. The BBB recommends reviewing privacy settings on all social media before you leave.

The FBI is also warning tourists, as criminals target travelers through pop-up windows while they’re establishing unknown Internet connections.

The solution? Upgrade software before traveling.

The BBB has also seen increased complaints about travel clubs promising big discounts on hotels, airfare and cruises but don’t deliver.

Do the research online before buying the sales pitch.

In addition, don’t fall for scam emails posing as a friend who got stuck traveling and then asks for money. Don’t use the same email to get back in touch with them to check if they’re OK.

And finally to keep from slipping into a vacation scam, check your cell phone plan before you leave.

A lot of customers get caught outside their coverage area or are paying big fees because their data plan is constantly in use, even when the phone isn't.