A call comes from an unknown number; it’s unexpected, yet friendly and familiar. The person claims to know your resort name; they refer to your membership; they talk as if they’ve been friends since forever in fact, they have in a way; at least as far as you’re concerned. They say there’s a buyer interested in your vacation ownership; an opportunity has developed; however, things must be done quickly. Before you know it, something that was ordinary now becomes urgent.
In reality, this is how many vacation ownership and resale scams get started, without clear warning signs and with reassurance and urgency, which creates a sense of familiarity. Knowledge will protect your vacation club ownership more than fear or uncertainty; knowledge is your defense; it’s knowing how the situation unfolds, and when to hold back.
Why Are Vacation Club Owners Being Targeted?
Vacation clubs represent value – time, experience and a long-term commitment. Those are the reasons scammers target them; scammers believe at some point, you may want to rent, sell, or explore options due to changes in your life. Curiosity generates opportunities – for both fraudsters, and for legitimate business discussions. Typically, fraudsters will contact you unsolicited, claiming to be professionals that assist with selling, renting, or exiting your vacation club membership; they may appear knowledgeable; they may use correct terminology; they may reference actual locations, resorts or properties. Their intention is to quickly establish trust and create a sense of urgency so that questions aren’t raised.
Using Urgency
Pressure is one of the most frequently used tools by fraudsters. You may be told that a buyer is available for a short period of time, or that paperwork needs to be completed immediately to close the sale. You may feel forced into a hasty decision prior to verifying the details, or having sufficient time to think about your decision. There are no legitimate transactions that require immediate action. Reputable businesses give you time to review, question and verify information. Creating a sense of urgency to act is usually a sign to slow down, not rush.
Common Red Flags: Upfront Payment Requests
Another common red flag is the request for an advance payment in resale and rental scams. Administrative costs, transfer fees, taxes, or processing fees may be the description given to you. They may be framed as standard, or refundable, and the amount may initially seem low enough to be considered reasonable. However, in many cases, once the advance payment is made, the scammer will disappear, along with the promised buyer, and the transaction will never occur. Here’s a good rule of thumb to keep in mind: Be wary of any unsolicited offer requiring you to send money before the legitimacy of the service is confirmed and documented.
Using Familiarity to Create Trust
Scammers often rely on sounding familiar. They may reference the resort brand you belong to, where you stay, or your membership type. They may state they work for a company you recognize, or that they have an official affiliation with your vacation club. This familiarity is deliberate. It is intended to reduce your vigilance.
However, no reputable organization contacts its members to buy their ownerships, nor does it require members to pay through unofficial channels. If you were not the one to start the conversation, it is perfectly fine to pause and confirm independently.
Legitimacy of Emails and Messages
Unsolicited emails and messages can resemble professionalism, including logos, official-looking language, and credible layout. Some may ask you to click on a link, confirm your account information, or provide private data to facilitate a transaction. Others may request electronic copies of documents or payments.
If the message creates uncertainty, urgency, or pressure or if it requests sensitive information — it is advisable not to engage directly. To avoid any potential risks, taking the time to verify via legitimate and established contact methods will likely resolve any issues.
Why Verify?
Independent verification is possibly the safest step you can take. Instead of reacting to an unsolicited message or call, access your vacation club membership via official contact methods you trust. Pose questions. Clarify information. Document everything.
Verification is not necessarily an indication of wrongdoing; it merely indicates caution. Professionalism expects and accepts that.
Listen to Your Intuition
Members who avoided scams after the fact, typically reported a common sensation: Something didn’t feel right. You never owe anyone an explanation to terminate a conversation that makes you uncomfortable. You have the right to reject a call, delete an email or choose not to respond to a message.
While scams cause significant financial harm, they also contribute to emotional anxiety, confusion and disappointment. In addition to your wallet, education also protects your peace of mind.
Your vacation club ownership is designed to provide you with enjoyable experiences, time away, connections and fun. Education will enable you to enjoy those experiences positively, without unnecessary stress.
