Planning a trip out of Tampa or a flight to see family up north often comes with a passport deadline, and scammers know that urgency well. The Better Business Bureau says lookalike websites designed to resemble travel.state.gov are charging “processing” or “expediting” fees for forms that are completely free to download and file. One traveler told the BBB she didn’t notice the site she used ended in state.com instead of the official state.gov.
The State Department never charges a fee for downloading or filling out passport forms, and that’s the simplest test. If a website wants payment before you’ve even completed the paperwork, close it and start over at travel.state.gov or in person at a local post office. The BBB also recommends letting a professional handle your passport photo rather than assembling one at home, since sizing and lighting mistakes lead to rejections and more delays.
Rushing is the scammers’ advantage, so a few extra minutes of checking the address bar can protect both your wallet and your travel plans. Have you ever spotted a fake website before paying, or nearly fallen for one? Tell us about it in the comments.
