Cruise Scam: Custom Door Banners

What’s the deal with the new “door banners” scam targeting cruisers?

Custom banners have become a popular door decoration on cruise ships. So, sadly, it was only a matter of time until scammers exploited this.

The scam, targeting cruisers on cruise-related Facebook pages, roll-call groups, and online forums, goes like this: A poster uses a fake profile to post a message very similar to this one…

It will include photos of many colorful door banners, customized with various messages and graphics. Often the option to comment on the post will be turned off by the poster, so others can’t warn of the scam. Anyone who reaches out to the scammer via a direct message, will be asked to transfer money to the scammer to cover the cost of materials, printing, and shipping the banners.

There is no banner. And now you’re out whatever money you sent them.

This latest scam appears to be replacing the “cruise ducks scam,” the “shot glass scam,” and the “paint ‘n sip scams,” which are very similar and ran rampant in Facebook roll call groups.

You can read about the “cruise ducks scam” here:

What to do if you see this “door banner” scam

If you see a post like this in one of your groups, you should immediately do three things.

1. Warn your fellow cruisers via a separate post (as you will likely not be able to comment on the original post).
2. Alert the admin of your group so they can remove the post.
3. Report the fake account to Facebook (or Cruise Critic, Reddit, etc).

I also encourage you to share this article with your cruise-related groups and your fellow cruise-mates, so people know in advance what to look out for. It makes me sad and angry to see people taken advantage of in this way, but hopefully we can prevent this latest cruise scam from spreading.

Thanks! Happy cruising!

Class Dismissed.

Today’s Bonus Cruising Tip

I ALWAYS buy travel insurance (especially during these uncertain times) to cover my cruises, but I NEVER purchase it through my cruise line. It costs more and covers less than policies you purchase on your own. I go through sites like travelinsurance.com* to compare plans and prices and get the best deal for the coverage I want. Spend less on insurance and spend more on excursions, special onboard cruise experiences and…future cruises!

Homework (10 points): Have you seen this scam (or any others) in any of your cruise groups? Share to the comments.

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