AI scams take off in corporate travel

Deepfakes, fake bookings and urgent messages are creating new risks for business travelers

AI is increasingly used to target business travelers with scams that mimic legitimate communications, exploit stressful travel situations, and trick people into transferring money or sharing sensitive information. Corporate travel managers must train staff to spot warning signs and build safeguards into booking and communication processes.

Key takeaways

• Shift from systems to people: AI scams now target travelers directly through deepfake voices, videos, and fake customer service messages.
• Exploiting stress and urgency: Scammers time attacks during disruptions like flight delays, when travelers are rushed or vulnerable.
• Examples of manipulation: Fake flight changes, false calls from executives, and virtual kidnapping hoaxes are increasingly convincing.
• Fake booking sites: Lookalike airline, hotel, or car rental sites capture financial details, leading to fraud and credit card theft.
• Training and policies matter: Clear travel policies, approved contact lists, and ongoing education help employees detect red flags.
• Red flags to watch: Unusual payment requests, redirects to unfamiliar platforms, or duplicate requests for card details signal potential scams.

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