# Travelers warned of costly new scam targeting Americans planning vacations to popular spot

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/travelers-warned-of-costly-new-scam-targeting-americans-planning-vacations-to-popular-spot/
- Published: 2026-11-06T14:05:13+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-06T21:56:10+00:00
- Original publisher: Fox News (publisher lean: Right)
- Original article: https://www.foxnews.com/travel/travelers-warned-costly-new-scam-targeting-americans-planning-vacations-popular-spot
- Topics: Americas, Culture, Government, Politics, Travel, World

## Key points

- ETIAS applications are not open yet.
- More than 150 third-party sites reportedly offer ETIAS services.
- Use official sources and report suspicious payments to your card provider.

## Summary

Scam websites are charging Americans for European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) permits, even though the EU has not launched the programme or opened applications. The warning matters because travellers may lose money or expose payment and personal details while seeking information about entry requirements.

More than 150 third-party sites reportedly offer ETIAS information or services, and some are designed to resemble official government websites. The EU says it will announce the launch date several months in advance; when the scheme begins, eligible travellers can apply through the official EU website or use legitimate intermediaries. Until then, travellers should check official country requirements and contact their card provider if they paid a suspicious site.

---
Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.