Tips for Avoiding the Most Common Airbnb Scams this Summer

Airbnb has revolutionized the way people book accommodation, providing unique and affordable stays worldwide. However, the platform’s increasing popularity has also given rise to scams targeting unsuspecting guests. A recent analysis of Airbnb complaints on Twitter indicates that almost a quarter of grievances are related to fraud.

Jonathan Merry, CEO of MoneyTransfers.com, has pinpointed the six most common tricks to watch out for this summer, and offered some key tips on how to avoid falling victim to them:

Multiple Listings Scam: Scammers may list the same property at different price points and take several bookings for the same period. They then cancel the lowest-priced one, keeping the booking at the highest price to make more money. Removing the price filter during your search can help identify potential duplicate listings.

Deceptive or Inaccurate Property Descriptions: Thorough research is essential before booking. Read past reviews to gauge other guests’ experiences and message the host for specific information on amenities. Cross-reference the property on Google Maps to verify its accuracy.

Doctored Images: Scammers may use fake or edited images to make their properties appear more appealing. Check the “accuracy” category in reviews and perform a reverse image search to spot potential fraudulent listings.

Airbnb Account Hacking: Though less common, this scam can be damaging. Always double-check the website URL before entering login credentials. Legitimate Airbnb URLs should begin with “https://www.airbnb.com.”

Fake Reviews: Some scammers manipulate reviews to deceive guests. Focus on properties with a significant number of reviews and pay attention to two, three, and four-star reviews for a more balanced perspective.

Payments Outside The Platform: All payments and communications should occur within the Airbnb app or website. Avoid paying through non-Airbnb apps, bank transfers, or other websites, as this may lead to potential loss of money. Report any suspicious requests to Airbnb and your bank if you encounter an Airbnb payment scam.

While most guests have a safe and enjoyable experience with Airbnb, it’s crucial to take precautions. Conduct thorough research, avoid discounts or offers outside the platform, and consider properties with verified images or Airbnb Plus listings for added assurance. Requesting virtual tours and doing a reverse image search can also help verify the authenticity of listings