Security Announcement

Protect against phishing, spam and malware

Spam, malware, and phishing attacks pose a growing threat to the hospitality industry.

Spam and malware – what are they?

Spam refers to unsolicited bulk communications sent with the intent to steal sensitive information and access credentials. Malware is malicious software designed to damage or exploit your devices, systems, and networks. It can disrupt business operations, steal information, and secretly monitor activities.

Taking simple steps—such as installing antivirus software, enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA), and avoiding suspicious emails and links—can help protect you and your guests from spam and malware. Stay safe, secure, and alert.

Phishing: How to spot it and stay protected

Phishing scams are increasingly common, often delivered through email, text messages, websites, or phone calls. Once scammers infect …

your device with a virus or trick you into revealing sensitive information (such as credit card details or passwords), they can steal money and even identities.

To identify and prevent phishing, remember the following:

  • Emails from SiteMinder will come from one of the following domains:
    • siteminder.com
    • siteminder.com.au
    • littlehotelier.com
    • thebookingbutton.com
    • siteminder.co.uk
    • rdxglobal.com
  • Links we share will also be hosted on these domains.
  • We will never contact you via subdomains or unrelated domains (e.g., domain.biz).
  • We will not request usernames, passwords, or other sensitive information via email.
  • Be cautious of unexpected or urgent messages claiming to be from us.
  • Preview links and attachments before opening; when in doubt, log in directly instead of clicking email links.
  • Check the sender’s email address to ensure it’s legitimate.
  • Real emails will include your full name, account information, and customer number.
  • Watch out for spelling or grammar mistakes—these can indicate a scam.
  • Be skeptical of offers, vouchers, and discounts that seem too good to be true.
  • Be wary of fraudulent login screens with suspicious URLs.

General steps to protect data

  • Use MFA to add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
  • Keep your applications and operating systems updated.
  • Install and update anti-virus, anti-malware, and anti-spyware tools.
  • Avoid using public email addresses as your login/username.
  • Do not share your property’s login credentials with others.
  • Create strong, unique passwords for each account.
  • Back up your data securely to prevent loss.
  • Secure any physical data stored on-site.
  • Provide cybersecurity training for your staff.

Be wary of employment scams in the travel industry

As the travel industry continues to grow and evolve, so do the tactics used by scammers to take advantage of unsuspecting job seekers. Employment scams are on the rise in the travel industry, and job seekers must be aware of these scams and take steps to protect themselves.A common scam is a false job offer from a “company” claiming to be in the travel industry. They may claim to be from “SiteMinder” or other travel groups or travel agencies. Scammers often send emails or messages to job seekers offering a job with a high salary and attractive benefits.

You may be asked to perform transactions, such as writing fake reviews or making fake hotel reservations, and promise to pay …

a commission in return. You may also be required to invest using cryptocurrencies before receiving this commission, or if your account balance is now negative.

SiteMinder will never ask anyone to write fake reviews, make fake reservations, or pay with cryptocurrency.

In another scam, job seekers were offered a job at SiteMinder and asked to sign up for a training program. Job seekers are then directed to a website where they are asked to pay for training materials. However, the website was fake and job seekers never received the promised training materials or support.

To avoid these scams, be cautious when you receive a job offer. Here are some tips to protect yourself:

  • Do your research: Before you accept a job, research the company to make sure it’s legitimate. Look online for reviews and information about the company. If you can’t find any information, or the information you find is negative, be careful. 
  • Don’t Pay for Training or Supplies: A legitimate employer will never ask you to pay for training or supplies. If you receive a job that requires you to pay, it’s likely a scam. 
  • Be wary of offers that are “too good to be true”: If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be wary of job opportunities that promise high pay or easy work. 
  • Don’t give out personal information: Be careful when giving out personal information, such as your Social Security number or bank account information, to people you don’t know.