The surprising new way scammers are fooling Google and cheating travelers out of thousands of dollars

NewsThe surprising new way scammers are fooling Google and cheating travelers out of thousands of dollarsFeatured image by MASKOT/GETTY IMAGESMichelle Couch-Friedman is an ombudsman columnist at The Points Guy. Michelle is the founder of Consumer Rescue, an organization dedicated to helping consumers navigate and avoid problems with companies, including major travel providers. Previously, Michelle served as the executive director of the nonprofit Elliott Advocacy, where she resolved thousands of problems for troubled travelers. Her guidance has been featured in notable outlets, including CNBC, Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, CNN and Newsweek. She also makes regular television appearances to discuss issues that impact consumers. If you have experienced a problem with an airline, hotel, rental car company, cruise line or credit card during your trip and you have not been able to resolve it, email our tips inbox and Michelle will investigate. Favorite cities: Paris, MoabNext Up: A cross-country road trip alone with four feisty teenagers! October 27, 2026 • 17 min readThe cards we feature here are from partners who compensate us when you are approved through our site, and this may impact how or where these products appear. We don't cover all available credit cards, but our analysis, reviews, and opinions are entirely from our editorial team. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information.Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.Related stories