ASTA’s VeriVacation to Prevent Travel Scams

The American Travel Advisors Association (ASTA) has introduced a new platform, VeriVacation, to help prevent scam victims. This tool will only highlight professionally certified advisors.

The American Travel Advisors Association (ASTA) has launched the VeriVacation platform to provide consumers with a trusted solution to travel scams. This new tool will only highlight professional advisors who hold the Verified Travel Advisor (VTA) certification.

Alexandria, VA, December 3, 2024 – For consumers looking for a trusted guide to the increasing scams in the travel industry, the American Travel Advisors Association (ASTA) has introduced a brand new platform, VeriVacation. This innovative tool aims to connect advisors who hold the Verified Travel Advisor (VTA) certification, which is awarded by ASTA and represents professionalism in the industry, directly to travelers.

VeriVacation aims to close the knowledge gap in the industry by providing consumers with trusted guidance on travel planning. ASTA particularly drew attention to the lack of licensing in the travel advisory sector when developing this platform. The platform reduces the risk of being a victim of fraud and offers consumers the opportunity to work with trusted and educated professionals.

ASTA President and CEO Zane Kerby emphasized the importance of the initiative with the following words:

“VeriVacation is an important step we are taking to raise the bar for the travel advisory profession. We are increasing professionalism and trust in the industry through education, certification and advocacy. This platform will be a guide for consumers in the complex travel process.”

The Verified Travel Advisor (VTA) certification represents the high standards in the industry. To receive this certification, advisors must have at least two years of experience, sales success and special training on issues such as ethics and regulatory compliance. In addition, advisors keep up with developments in the industry by receiving renewal training every two years.

VeriVacation will be introduced with a wide consumer awareness campaign in early 2025. Advertisements to be published on digital platforms will explain how consumers can access trusted travel advisors. Kerby explained the platform’s purpose as follows:

“In an increasingly complex travel process, travelers need a trusted resource. VeriVacation meets this need by providing the best professional service and personalized guidance.”

Opportunity for industry professionals

Early access to the platform offers advisors with Verified Travel Advisor certification the chance to learn how the system works and prepare their profiles. ASTA will take into account feedback from advisors to improve the user experience. Certified advisors will be able to respond to consumer requests through the platform starting in 2025.

ASTA’s initiative aims to both increase consumer trust and set a new standard in the travel consulting industry.