As the holiday season approaches many of us are planning to travel and book stays with Airbnb. It’s crucial to be aware of the various scams that could potentially ruin your Airbnb experience. Here are the most prevalent Airbnb scams you should know about to ensure a safe holiday stay.
Most Common Airbnb Scams of the Holiday Season 2023
Is Airbnb As Safe As We Think?
This was the pivotal question that motivated data analyst Asher Fergusson to sift through over 127,000 Twitter grievances from Airbnb users. The findings were startling, revealing that about 25% of these complaints were related to different types of Airbnb scams, ranging from duplicated listings to account breaches and spurious reviews.
Summary: Top 10 U.S. Airbnb Scams to Be Wary Of
Duplicated Property Listings
Misleading or Incorrect Property Descriptions
Altered Photos
Compromised Airbnb Accounts
Counterfeit Reviews
Requests for Payments Outside Airbnb
Unbelievably Low Prices
Unauthorized Listings
Illegitimate Damage Charges
Concealed Surveillance Devices
Understanding Airbnb Scams and Self-Protection Strategies
Airbnb scams may encompass misleading advertisements, unwarranted additional charges, unauthorized access to payment details, and discriminatory practices against guests. We delve into each of these deceitful tactics and how you can safeguard yourself:
Duplicated Property Listings: Learn techniques to avoid falling prey to switch-and-bait schemes by hosts.
Tip 1: Verify the Host's Profile: Check the host’s history, reviews, and the date the account was created.
Tip 2: Cross-Check Listings: Use search engines to see if the property is listed elsewhere under a different host.
Tip 3: Look for Consistency: Ensure that the property details are consistent across various platforms.
Misleading or Incorrect Property Descriptions: Find out the best practices in authenticating property specifics prior to reservation.
Tip 1: Research the Location: Use Google Maps to verify the property’s location and surroundings.
Tip 2: Contact the Host: Ask specific questions about the property and request additional photos if needed.
Tip 3: Read Reviews Carefully: Pay attention to past guests’ experiences regarding the accuracy of the property description.
Altered Photos: Master the skill of identifying manipulated images to prevent being misled by inaccurate listings.
Tip 1: Check for Photo Consistency: Look for discrepancies in furniture, layout, and exterior surroundings.
Tip 2: Use Reverse Image Search: Upload property photos to a reverse image search tool to check for authenticity.
Tip 3: Trust Your Instincts: If photos look too perfect or digitally enhanced, they might be altered.
Compromised Airbnb Accounts: Understand how identity theft via account hacking occurs and ways to avert it.
Tip 1: Use Strong Passwords: Create unique and complex passwords for your Airbnb account.
Tip 2: Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your account.
Tip 3: Monitor Your Account: Regularly check your account for any unusual activity.
Counterfeit Reviews: Learn the art of distinguishing real reviews from fabricated ones for better decision-making.
Tip 1: Look for Detailed Feedback: Genuine reviews often include specific details about the stay.
Tip 2: Beware of Generic Praise: Be wary of reviews that are vague and overly enthusiastic without details.
Tip 3: Check the Reviewer’s Profile: Genuine reviewers usually have a fully set up profile.
Requests for Payments Outside Airbnb: Be alert to any external payment requests to evade scams and double payments.
Tip 1: Always Pay Through Airbnb: Avoid hosts who request payments through external channels.
Tip 2: Report Suspicious Activity: Notify Airbnb if a host tries to take the transaction off the platform.
Unbelievably Low Prices: We’ll guide you on how to recognize and steer clear of deals that seem too good to be true.
Tip 1: Compare Prices: Check similar listings in the area to gauge the average price.
Tip 2: Read the Fine Print: Look for hidden fees or clauses that might explain the low price.
Tip 3: Trust Your Gut: If it feels too good to be true, it probably is.
Unauthorized Listings: Be informed about the legal implications of short-term rentals in certain areas.
Tip 1: Research Local Laws: Check the legal status of short-term rentals in the destination.
Tip 2: Ask for Proof: Request the host to provide evidence that their listing is legally compliant.
Illegitimate Damage Charges: Safeguard yourself from unfounded damage claims by documenting the state of the property.
Tip 1: Document Everything: Take photos or videos of the property upon arrival and departure.
Tip 2: Report Discrepancies Immediately: Notify the host and Airbnb about any pre-existing damage.
Concealed Surveillance Devices: Get insights on detecting hidden cameras and methods to ensure your privacy.
Tip 1: Familiarize Yourself with Common Hiding Spots: Check places like clocks, smoke detectors, and decor items.
Tip 2: Use a Signal Detector: Consider using a device that can detect electronic devices.
Tip 3: Report Any Discovery: If you find any hidden device, report it immediately to Airbnb.
General Airbnb Safety Tips:
Always verify details before booking.
Stick to authorized offers and discounts.
Conduct transactions within the Airbnb framework.
Prefer properties awarded the "Guest Favorite" badge.
Ask for virtual property tours if uncertain.
Use reverse image search on property photos.
Verify the legality of the listing in your intended location.
Avoid impromptu reservations.
Secure your Airbnb account with multi-factor authentication.
While Airbnb offers a wonderful platform for accommodation, vigilance and awareness are key to avoiding scams. For any queries or advice, our team is readily available.
For enhanced digital security against scams you can use Genie.
The App That Keeps You Safe From Scammers: The Genie App
Have you ever worried that an email or text you got was a scam? Or do you get tired of bothersome calls that you don't want to answer? The Genie app is here to help! It's like having a helper right in your phone that watches out for you. Let's look at what it can do: 1. Is That Email or Text a Scam? Just Ask Genie! Ever get a message and wonder if it's trying to trick you? Genie can help you figure that out, and you don't have to pay anything for it! For Texts: If you get a strange text, all you have to do is forward it to this number: +12515720340. Genie will look it over and let you know if it's safe or not. For Emails: If you're not sure about an email, send it to this address: Ask@lifesgenie.com. Genie will check it for you and tell you if you should be worried. And guess what? This is all free! 2. Don't Want Annoying Calls? Genie Can Handle That! Getting calls from people you don't know can be irritating, or even scary. Genie can check who's calling you before you pick up. If it's someone you don't want to talk to, Genie will take care of it! 3. Make Your Voicemail Work Your Way Voicemail can be confusing. But Genie makes it easy. You can record your own greeting, so people hear your voice when they leave a message. And instead of listening to their message, Genie writes it down for you to read whenever you want! Why You'll Love Genie Genie is like a helper that lives in your phone. It keeps an eye out for scams, blocks calls you don't want, and even takes care of your voicemail. So why not try Genie today? Click the button below to learn more about Genie and how you can get started!
Wishing you joyous and safe travels this holiday season!