In a recent consumer alert, Shanghai authorities have disclosed alarming practices in the air ticket agency industry, highlighting eight common traps and five major problems that travelers frequently encounter. The findings serve as a crucial warning for consumers seeking flight booking services.

Eight Major Ticket Agency Traps:
1. Hidden Fees: Agencies often advertise low base fares but add numerous undisclosed charges during checkout.
2. Bait-and-Switch Pricing: Quoted prices frequently change after payment is processed.
3. Fake Discount Claims: False promotions that don't actually provide the advertised savings.
4. Unauthorized Seat Changes: Agencies sometimes alter passenger seats without consent.
5. Invalid Tickets: Selling already-used or fraudulent tickets.
6. Overpriced Insurance: Forcing unnecessary travel insurance at inflated rates.
7. Fake Customer Reviews: Posting fabricated positive reviews to appear trustworthy.
8. Refund Obstruction: Creating unnecessary hurdles when customers request cancellations.

Five Core Problems in the Industry:
1. Lack of Transparency: Incomplete disclosure of terms and conditions.
2. Poor Regulation: Inadequate oversight of agency practices.
3. Customer Service Deficiencies: Unresponsive support and unresolved complaints.
4. Technical Manipulation: Exploiting system vulnerabilities to consumer disadvantage.
5. Contract Violations: Frequent breaches of service agreements.

Consumers are advised to book directly through airline websites or authorized platforms, verify all charges before payment, keep detailed transaction records, and report suspicious practices to consumer protection authorities immediately. The Shanghai Consumer Council emphasizes that increased vigilance and proper due diligence can help travelers avoid these costly pitfalls in air ticket procurement.