‘Never Google’—Save These Numbers Before You Fly Again

InnovationCybersecurity‘Never Google’—Save These Numbers Before You Fly AgainByZak Doffman,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Zak Doffman writes about cybersecurity, surveillance and privacy.Follow AuthorMay 18, 2026, 04:28pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.DO not Google airline numbers.gettyJust ahead of the summer holiday season in North America and Europe, there are serious new warnings for travelers as criminals target citizens while abroad. This is more acute than usual, because “geopolitical turmoil is a gift for scammers.”The team at ESET warns that “military conflict can often result in sudden flight cancellations, border checks and other travel-related disruption.” All of which open the door to attacks. “Scammers can take advantage of this by impersonating airlines and government agencies.” And when you’re away, that’s much higher risk.DO not Google airline numbers.gettyConsumer Affairs warns that “scammers rely on urgency (your flight is changing, act now), trust (it looks like a real airline phone number), convenience (you just click the first result).” But there’s one thing you can do to help stay safe.“Never Google airline phone numbers in a rush,” the consumer advocacy website says. “Sponsored search results can be fake. Instead, do this: Use the airline’s official app. Go directly to the airline’s website (type it in yourself). Save customer service phone numbers in your phone ahead of trips.”MORE FOR YOUThat’s even more critical now than ever before. “With AI and better fake websites, it’s getting harder to tell what’s real.” There are many ways scammers can trick you into calling their fake or spoofed numbers. Poisoning SEO results in one. But there are plenty of other ways to lure victims while they’re on holiday.“Be cautious of social media accounts,” ESET says, “especially those that appear to be customer servic...