A Yorkshire couple was left in tears after falling victim to a scam involving a fake “stargazing dome” accommodation. Samantha Cook, 39, and her partner Ryan Swain, 34, had booked a surprise getaway at a cost of £99 per night through a firm called Star Domes. The accommodation was described as a futuristic pod with a transparent canopy offering stunning views of North Yorkshire. They received a booking confirmation, a key code, and an address in a small village called Knayton.
Excited for their weekend getaway, the couple set off to Knayton from Malton, only to find empty fields upon arrival with no sign of the promised domes. Samantha, devastated, sought assistance from a local pub, where she discovered they had fallen for a scam. Ryan described the fraudulent website as appearing “really authentic and legitimate,” leaving Samantha heartbroken.
Unfortunately, Samantha and Ryan are not the only victims of this scam. According to reports, several other individuals have also been affected by the fake stargazing dome offers. The scam has had a significant impact on the community of Knayton, with local farmer Julian Potter witnessing approximately 30 perplexed holidaymakers showing up at his fields in the past six months.
The scam websites displaying the fake accommodations often feature minor spelling errors and operate for short periods before re-emerging under a new name. Local businesses like caravan parks and pubs have had to break the news to numerous holidaymakers who fell for the fraudulent offers. The police struggle to keep up with shutting down these fake websites.
It was revealed that the photos used to promote the stargazing domes were actually taken from an award-winning Airbnb location in Australia. Despite attempts to contact those behind the scam, no response has been received yet. Consumer experts warn that such scams are increasing in frequency, emphasizing the need for victims to report incidents to their banks and Action Fraud.
Fortunately, Samantha and Ryan were able to recover their money through their bank. However, the widespread nature of this scam serves as a cautionary tale for others looking for unique accommodations online. With scams like these becoming more prevalent, it is essential for consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities promptly.
In conclusion, the heart-wrenching experience of Samantha, Ryan, and numerous other victims highlights the prevalence of online scams targeting unsuspecting holidaymakers. The emotional and financial toll of falling for such fraudulent schemes underscores the importance of thorough research and verification before making any bookings. As the authorities work to address these scams, individuals are urged to stay informed and cautious to protect themselves from falling victim to similar deceitful practices.