Holiday travelers warned about fake TSA ‘scam’ that could bleed you dry

Don’t get prechecked by crooks.

Experts are alerting travelers about the latest scheme that could steal your personal information and empty your bank accounts.

Scammers are emailing frequent flyers about signing up for TSA PreCheck, an expedited screening program that assesses passengers’ risk before check-in, ahead of the hectic holiday travel season.

If gullible enough, travelers will hand over their personal and credit card information when asked in hopes of reducing their wait time through airport security.

Most travelers will not realize they’ve made a mistake until they see zeros in their bank account or are declined PreCheck status at the airport.

The Federal Trade Commission warned travelers that they cannot sign up or pay the TSA PreCheck application fee online.

Applicants’ registration must be finalized in person at a TSA enrollment center, and locations for those can be checked on the administration’s website. However, if you’re renewing the service, you can do so online or in person.

The federal agency confirmed that receiving an email application for TSA PreCheck is a red flag, and there are several ways to determine if you’re the target of the scam.

When you receive unexpected emails or text messages with links, avoid clicking them at all costs because it can lead you somewhere that will release your personal information to fraudsters.

“A scammer’s link will take you to a scam site that looks real, but if you pay and give your information, the scammer will steal it,” the FTC warns.

Another red flag is when the solicitor rushes you to complete the application; in that case, immediately stop filling out the form.

However, if you register for the service through the official TSA site, you’ll receive reminder emails.

If you have any questions regarding the service offered, the FTC encourages interested applicants to visit the agency site.