Virtu Ferries warns of 'scam' website selling fake tickets

The company that operates a ferry service between Malta and Sicily has warned the public against a 'fraudulent' website selling fake tickets.

Virtu Ferries Ltd. issued a public warning on Tuesday, cautioning people not to purchase tickets from the website maltaferrytrips.com, which was "falsely selling Virtu Ferries tickets" to Sicily.

“This website is NOT affiliated with Virtu Ferries in any way. Tickets sold through this site are fake, and the prices and information displayed are false and misleading,” the company said.

A spokesperson for Virtu Ferries told Times of Malta that the company was alerted to the website by a client who phoned in to inquire about ferry prices and schedules. He added that he is unaware of anyone who has been defrauded so far.

The company insisted that tickets should only be purchased through its official website or through authorised agents and sales channels.

“Stay safe: Always verify that you are on our official website (www.virtuferries.com) before making any purchases. Be cautious of websites with similar names or unusual domain extensions,” it said.

If someone has been affected by the “scam”, Virtu Ferries encouraged people to contact their bank to report the fraudulent transaction and seek a refund, report the matter to the police, and contact Virtu Ferries directly so the company can assist with legitimate booking options.

In a Times Talk episode published a few months ago, an inspector from the Financial Crimes Investigation Department (FCID) said that the police are receiving an average of 15 reports about online scams every day.

Last month, pantomime fans were tricked into paying money for false tickets to a sold-out production taking place at Sliema's Teatru Salesjan, according to its director.

Excited theatregoers had turned up to the door to see MADC's Ebeneezer Scrooge! The Panto only to find out their tickets had an invalid QR code. He said up to fifteen people had arrived with fraudulent tickets for the popular pantomime, up from just two last year.

And a year ago Valletta's St John co-cathedral warned visitors of "fake tickets" sold by social media profiles and websites impersonating the foundation that cares for the 16th-century building.