Worst Travel Scams

Next time you rent a car, pay close attention to any preexisting damage. If you don't, you could fall for this swindle. It involves an unsuspecting driver who rents a car with no apparent damage and declines the overpriced insurance. The vehicle is returned in the same condition. But wait! Suddenly a car-rental company employee is on his hands and knees, looking at the underbelly of the car—almost as if he knows there's something there. And there is. It's a well-hidden ding or dent. Coincidentally, the repairs will cost you a few dollars less than your insurance deductible. (Wouldn't want the insurance company to start asking questions now, would we?) Most folks pay for the "damage," which can include an unjustifiable loss-of-use fee for the car, and try to forget about the whole thing. But the car is then returned to service, sometimes allegedly unrepaired, and the process is repeated. Scamtastic!