Short-term rentals have transformed the way we travel and experience new destinations. Platforms like Airbnb have made it easier than ever to find the perfect accommodation for any trip. However, when searching for a rental on an online marketplace, there’s always a risk of encountering scams. As a responsible property management company, Hostly wants to protect you and your guests by providing knowledge and tools for avoiding Airbnb scams. 

Understanding Common Airbnb Scams

Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but familiarizing yourself with common tactics can help you stay one step ahead:

• Phishing Scams: Scammers may pose as Airbnb or other trusted entities, sending emails or messages with links to fake websites designed to trick you into revealing your personal information or login credentials.
• Fake Listings: These are listings that showcase properties that don’t exist or are significantly different from what’s advertised. Be wary of listings with unbelievably low prices or photos that seem too good to be true. Always verify the host’s identity and reviews before booking..
• Bait-and-Switch: In this scenario, a host might advertise a property that’s no longer available and then try to convince you to book a less desirable or more expensive alternative.
• Overpayment Scams: In this scam, a “guest” sends you a payment that exceeds the booking amount and then requests a refund for the difference. Never accept overpayments and only use Airbnb’s secure payment system.Never send payments outside of the Airbnb platform. Scammers may request wire transfers or other forms of payment that bypass Airbnb’s secure system.
• Extortion: Although uncommon, some hosts may resort to extortion, demanding extra fees under the threat of harming your reputation or property. Should you encounter such a situation, notify Airbnb immediately.

Tips for Protecting Yourself

When it comes to avoiding rental scams, taking proactive steps to protect yourself is crucial. Here are some essential tips: 

• Book Through the Hostly Platform: Always complete your bookings and payments through the official Hostly website to ensure you’re covered by Hostly’s protections.
• Communicate Through Hostly: Keep all communication with hosts within the Hostly messaging system. This creates a record of your interactions and helps Hostly mediate any disputes.
• Read Reviews Carefully: Pay close attention to reviews from previous guests, especially those mentioning any suspicious activity or scams.
• Verify the Host’s Identity: Look for hosts with verified profiles and positive reviews. You can also search for their name or property online to see if there are any red flags.
• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off about a listing or host, don’t hesitate to move on. There are plenty of other great options available.

How Hostly Helps

At Hostly, we take the security of our properties and guests seriously. We implement several measures to minimize the risk of scams to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone:

• Secure Payment Processing: We handle all payments through secure channels, protecting your financial information.
• Professional Communication: Our team communicates with guests in a professional and transparent manner, setting clear expectations and addressing any concerns promptly addressing any questions or concerns.
• 24/7 Support: We’re available around the clock to assist you and your guests with any issues that may arise.
• Damage Protection: We offer insurance options to protect your property from accidental damage or theft.

Start Your Vacation with a Peace of Mind

While scams are a reality in the short-term rental industry, you can significantly reduce your risk by staying informed and taking proactive steps to protect yourself. When you partner with Hostly, you gain an extra layer of protection and peace of mind, knowing that your property and guests are well-cared for. Remember, trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to report any suspicious activity to Hostly. Together, we can create a secure and welcoming environment for everyone in the short-term rental community. Contact Hostly today to find your perfect short-term rental with the assurance that your vacation is secure.