BRITS have been warned to be careful after scam websites spreading misinformation about new travel rules have been found. There are more than 100 unofficial sites online and while some spout nonsense about the new Etias scheme - which launches next year - others try to steal data. Etias is new system of managing visa-free travel to the EU issued by the European border agency.
It is a system intended to streamline travel to EU countries for people from outside of it, including travellers from the UK. At present, it is expected to start in 2025 and will require travellers to pay a €7 fee. But, despite Etias not being in full swing yet the European border agency, Frontex, has warned that a number of websites are attempting to scam travellers.
It has discovered identified "over 100 unofficial websites" providing information to travellers about the scheme, Connexion France reported. Frontex notes that while some of these sites are trustworthy and provide legitimate news on the topic, others peddle misinformation. Some websites even advertise that they can apply for Etias authorisation on behalf of individuals - despite the system being nearly a year away.
Francois Laruelle, Director of the Etias Central Unit Division at Frontex, said: “We are aware of several sites that claim to already accept Etias applications. Travellers should be very cautious about those websites.” He added: “It is not currently possible to apply for an official Etias travel authorisation since the sy.
