SA's recent travel agency scams prompt calls for blacklisting, accreditation

Following a number of high-profile incidents of travel scams there have been calls for the government to assist in the accreditation of travel agencies as well as blacklisting agents found guilty of perpetuating scams.

According to travel agents, no accreditation or background checks are needed to establish agencies, leaving many prospective travellers vulnerable, especially online. 

Currently, those who fall victim to these crimes are protected under the Consumer Protection Act. Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism has said that complaints can be referred to the department itself, and also encouraged victims to open criminal cases.