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Thursday, March 28, 2024

Unofficial ETIAS Websites on the Rise, Beware of Possible Abuse

As the application process will require travelers to submit details of their passport details, credit card number and other personal data, it is important to ensure that such sensitive information is not misused.  

Frontex, together with other EU institutions and 30 European countries, is currently preparing for the launch of ETIAS, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System, expected in 2024.  

With ETIAS, visa-free travelers will be required to apply for a travel authorization prior to undertaking their trip to Europe. The system will carry out pre-travel screening of these travelers to determine whether they pose a security, illegal immigration or public health risk, thus further strengthening the EU’s internal security.

Frontex hosts the ETIAS Central Unit, which will be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to handle ETIAS applications and help travelers and carriers. 

As the introduction of ETIAS affects the nationals of about 60 visa-free countries – potentially 1,4 billion people – it is essential to make sure they are well informed about the upcoming changes in the rules of travel to Europe.  

Frontex supports the European Commission in preparing a public information campaign about ETIAS, expected to be launched six months before the system enters into operation. 

The official ETIAS website europa.eu/etias, launched last year, also provides travelers with information about the new requirements, the application process, appeals, and other relevant topics. Travelers will be able to submit their ETIAS applications exclusively through this official website once the system becomes operational. 

“We have become aware that the number of unofficial ETIAS websites in multiple languages has recently increased to over 50. While some of these websites are run by genuine businesses, others may not be as trustworthy,” said Francois Laruelle, Director of the ETIAS Central Unit Division at Frontex. 

The ETIAS Regulation does allow commercial intermediaries to apply for the travel authorization on behalf of others. However, as the application process will require travelers to submit details of their passport details, credit card number and other personal data, it is important to ensure that such sensitive information is not misused.   

Once ETIAS is launched, the commercial intermediaries will have to use the official ETIAS website – the only official channel – to apply for the travel authorization on behalf of their clients. Applying on the official website will cost EUR 7. Any additional charges will go to the intermediaries. 

“When applying for an ETIAS authorization, it is important for travelers to consider whom they are giving their personal information to and how much they are willing to pay in addition to the application fee. It is important travelers take time and assess these factors carefully,” added Laruelle.

Read more at Frontex

Unofficial ETIAS Websites on the Rise, Beware of Possible Abuse Homeland Security Today
Homeland Security Today
The Government Technology & Services Coalition's Homeland Security Today (HSToday) is the premier news and information resource for the homeland security community, dedicated to elevating the discussions and insights that can support a safe and secure nation. A non-profit magazine and media platform, HSToday provides readers with the whole story, placing facts and comments in context to inform debate and drive realistic solutions to some of the nation’s most vexing security challenges.
Homeland Security Today
Homeland Security Todayhttp://www.hstoday.us
The Government Technology & Services Coalition's Homeland Security Today (HSToday) is the premier news and information resource for the homeland security community, dedicated to elevating the discussions and insights that can support a safe and secure nation. A non-profit magazine and media platform, HSToday provides readers with the whole story, placing facts and comments in context to inform debate and drive realistic solutions to some of the nation’s most vexing security challenges.

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