In another ploy to sell vacation plans, some vendors are sending unsolicited faxes to businesses, making it appear to employees that the offers are approved by the company they work for. These faxes violate Florida law if sent intrastate, and federal law if sent interstate. Under Chapter 559, Florida Statutes, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is responsible for registering all non-exempt sellers of travel operating in Florida. These sellers of travel must register with the Department each year and provide proof of bond. The state-issued registration number must appear on all travel certificates sold by any travel firm doing business in or from Florida.
Countless citizens receive travel certificate offers, primarily through the mail.
Recently, State Rep. Carlos Valdes of Miami received such an offer and asked Crawford's office to check out its legitimacy. While there was nothing illegal about the particular offer, Crawford believes it underscores the need for consumers to be cautious when they are offered travel certificates. If accommodations are included, call the hotel and confirm the reservations personally. Also, ask if there are any additional hotel charges. Never give credit card numbers over the phone unless you initiated the call and are certain about the credentials of the company.