Cybercriminals are taking advantage of summer travel season by launching a new scheme called malvertising, where they use fake online ads to trick unsuspecting consumers. One popular tactic involves targeting people searching for help with cruise bookings.

Here’s how the scam works: After booking a cruise, you might head to Google to find a customer support number. At the top of the search results, you’ll likely see a paid ad that appears to be from the cruise line. It may even display a legitimate-looking phone number.

But if you call that number, you’re not speaking to the cruise company — you’re talking to a scammer. They may claim to have found a better price for your trip and offer to cancel and rebook it at a lower rate. Of course, they’ll need your credit card information to do so. In reality, there is no deal. There’s no rebooking. It’s a con designed to steal your personal and financial details.

How to Stay Safe:

• Be skeptical of steep discounts that seem out of line with what you’d expect. If the price is unusually low, it could be bait.

• Don’t trust ads just because they appear on Google. Bad actors can buy ad space just like legitimate companies.

• Go directly to the source. Use official cruise line websites or verified contact numbers. Not sure where to start? A trusted travel advisor can help guide you.

Stay alert and double-check before you click — especially when planning your dream vacation.