Scammers target popular platforms like Airbnb and VRBO because their branding and marketing can lull people into a false sense of security. These platforms are essentially marketplaces that connect renters and hosts, which means they rely primarily on users to verify details. This structure can sometimes be exploited by bad actors.

In the wake of recent emergencies, such as wildfires in Los Angeles, where over 150,000 people have been evacuated and thousands are urgently seeking new housing, scammers thrive on the desperation and urgency of renters. To protect yourself, here are actionable tips for identifying fake listings and ensuring your safety while booking.

Here Are Some Tips:

1. Check the Property Reviews

Reviews are your first line of defense when assessing a listing:

• Timeline of Reviews: Look for reviews that are both recent (indicating the host is active) and span a longer period (showing the listing isn’t brand new). 
• Content of Reviews: Genuine reviews often mention interactions with the host, detailed experiences, and specific observations about the property.

2. Investigate the Host

You can learn a lot about the legitimacy of a listing by checking the host’s profile:

• Multiple Listings: Click on the host’s name or picture to view their other listings. Hosts with a mix of reviewed and new listings are generally more credible. However, stay cautious with hosts who only have brand-new listings without reviews.
• Verifications: Hosts can verify their identity through ID verification, linking social media, and other methods. The more verifications, the better.
• Hosting History: Be cautious with hosts who joined recently or those who joined long ago but have no activity.
• Professional Property Management: Hosts who work with established property management companies may add credibility since creating a fake company and website is more challenging than setting up a fake listing. Bonus points if they have a social media account with a real following.

3. Scrutinize the Listing

Certain red flags in a listing’s details can indicate potential scams:

• Pricing Concerns: Beware of pricing that’s too good to be true (it usually is) and pricing that’s so high it might be predatory (California consumer protections prevent post disaster surge pricing for example.)
• Listing Details: Poorly written descriptions, vague details, or low-quality photos can all be warning signs.
• Cancellation Policies: Extremely strict cancellation policies might be a red flag but are not conclusive on their own.
• Address Discrepancies: If the host claims the property’s listed address isn’t the actual address, proceed with caution.
• Reverse Image Search: Use tools like Google Lens to reverse image search listing photos. You may uncover duplicate images used elsewhere or confirm the legitimacy of the property.

4. Assess Host Communication

Engage with the host to gauge their responsiveness and intentions:

• Ask Questions: Even if the listing has an instant booking option, message the host to ask detailed questions about the property.  You can start a chat with the host often by simply putting in the dates you are interested in and then starting a conversation.
• Platform Payments: Never agree to pay outside of the platform (e.g., via wire transfer, Venmo, or cashier’s check). Legitimate hosts should only request payment through the platform’s secure system. No one has used a cashier’s check since the 90s so please don’t do that.‍
• Transparency: Beware of Airbnb and VRBO hosts who WANT to chat outside of the platform with you (you're only supposed to communicate via the platform until booking) and for bookings off of the platforms be weary of agents or owners who DO NOT want to take phone calls, video chats, or in-person meetings - especially if they cite vague reasons like being “out of the country."‍
• Viewing Policies: For long-term rentals, insist on a property showing—either in person or virtually—before making any payment.

What to Do If You Suspect a Fake Listing

If something about a listing doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and act cautiously:

1. Contact Platform Support: Airbnb and VRBO have dedicated support teams to investigate suspicious activity. If you report a listing before booking, they can verify the host and property on your behalf.
2. Cancel Immediately: If you’ve already booked and suspect fraud, contact the platform’s support team immediately. Payments are often held for 24 hours after check-in, giving you a window to stop the transaction.
3. Report the Host: Even if you don’t book, reporting a suspicious host can protect other renters.

Stay Safe, Stay Informed

While platforms like Airbnb and VRBO offer incredible opportunities to find your dream stay, staying vigilant is essential. If you ever need guidance or assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.

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