Watch Out for TSA PreCheck Scams

Imagine getting ready for your trip, excited to skip the long security lines with TSA PreCheck. Then you get an email saying it’s time to renew or enroll, and you click the link without thinking. The next thing you know, you’ve been scammed. It happens more often than you’d think, and the scammers are getting better at fooling people.

These fake emails look real, using official-looking logos and language. But instead of helping you get TSA PreCheck, they take your money and personal information. The worst part? Many people don’t realize they’ve been scammed until they’re at the airport. Don’t let this happen to you—here’s what you need to know.

How These Scams Work

Scammers send fake emails pretending to be from TSA PreCheck. They’ll say it’s time to enroll or renew and include a link to what looks like the official TSA website—but it’s not. If you click the link and pay, you’ve handed your money and details to the scammers.

Here’s the truth:

• First-time applicants don’t pay online. If you’re applying for TSA PreCheck, you fill out an application online but pay in person at an official enrollment center.
• Renewals can be done online, but it’s best to go straight to the official TSA website by typing tsa.gov/precheck into your browser. Don’t click on links from emails, no matter how legit they look.

How to Spot a Fake Email

It’s easy to get tricked, but if you know what to look for, you can avoid falling for these scams:

Don’t click links in emails or texts

If you get an unexpected email about TSA PreCheck, don’t trust it—even if it looks official. Scammers are good at copying logos and making emails look real.

Don’t let them rush you

If the email or message says you need to act fast or your PreCheck will expire, it’s likely a scam. The real TSA won’t pressure you like that.

Check the official website

TSA websites always end in “.gov.” If the site is a “.com” or anything else, it’s not real.

What to Do If You Spot a Scam

If you think you’ve found a fake TSA PreCheck email or website, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. This helps stop scammers and protect others from falling for the same tricks.

Stay Safe and Travel Smart

Scammers are sneaky, but you can stay ahead of them. Remember: if you’re unsure, type the website yourself instead of clicking a link. It’s a simple step that can save you time, money, and a lot of stress.

Keep these tips in mind, and enjoy your trip without worrying about scams! Safe travels!

This article was published in collaboration with the FTC.

Image Source: Unsplash.com