Finding a good deal online for airfares can be easy if you know where to look. However, before you jump at the lowest price, make sure that you know who you are dealing with.

Although there are a number of reputable sites, offering great rates, there are also a few Web sites that are looking to steal your money.

Complaints are on the rise about Web sites that offer deals that seem too good to be true, and then scam consumers by asking them to wire payment for what turns out to be bogus or non-existent tickets.

Before you book and pay for your airfare online:

• Know who you are dealing with. If you cannot verify the reputation of the seller or Web site, don’t buy.

• Compare what is being offered on these Web sites with that being offered on the official Web site for the airline. You might find that the fare is cheaper by buying direct from the airline.

• Never wire payment for airline tickets. Use a credit card. If you wire money, and get ripped off, it will be nearly impossible to collect damages. Your credit card offers an opportunity to dispute and refund a bogus charge.

Stick to the golden rule – if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Save your money and buy from a reputable source.