Airbnb scams: What to look out for

Airbnb scams aren’t always apparent at first glance. A listing may look appealing, or a guest message may seem harmless, but behind it could be a scammer looking to mislead, overcharge, or outright steal from you—usually by using loopholes in how Airbnb handles bookings and transactions.

Below, we break down the most common Airbnb scams, including fake or too-good-to-be-true listings, double bookings, bait-and-switch tactics, off-platform payment requests, false damage claims, unauthorized guests, and verification or phishing schemes.

What are Airbnb scams?

Whether a host or guest does it, Airbnb scams aim to exploit people for money or personal gain. Hosts might post fake ads or tack on surprise charges and repair fees, while guests may bring unlisted visitors, dodge payments, or use phishing tactics to steal host accounts.

These can ruin planned trips, drain your wallet, and leave both hosts and guests stressed. The good news is that learning the warning signs makes it easier to avoid Airbnb scams and ensures a smooth stay.

Host Airbnb scams

Most hosts play fair, but some use Airbnb scams to trick travelers. From fake listings to hidden fees, these tactics can wreck a trip and cost you money. Here’s what to watch out for.

Fake or misleading listings

Some hosts set up listings that don’t exist or exaggerate what they offer. You may arrive to find a rundown apartment, lacking amenities, or a space that doesn’t resemble the photos. These scams rely on making the rental seem more appealing than it really is.

In the worst-case scenario, the entire listing is fake. Scammers post stolen photos and use secondary accounts to leave fake reviews to lure in unsuspecting guests. By the time you realize you’ve been tricked, your money is already gone, and your trip is thrown off.

Here’s how to ensure what you’re booking is the real deal:

• Verify the address: Use Google Maps and Street View to confirm the property exists and matches the listing photos.
• Check reviews: Look for genuine feedback. Vague or suspiciously positive reviews (e.g., “Hands down the best experience ever!”) may indicate a scam. The same applies to negative reviews or listings with few to begin with.
• Request extra photos: A few more images or even a video guide should clear any doubts you have about the property.
• Know the cancellation rules: Honest hosts usually offer flexible policies if you need to cancel.
• Compare prices: Listings far cheaper than similar rentals in the region can be a sign of false advertising.
• Reverse image check: Use Google Images to see if listing photos appear elsewhere online. Stolen images are a sure sign of a fake or misleading listing.

Double-booked properties

A host may use alternate accounts to list the same location at different prices, and cancel on you if someone else pays more. Afterwards, they may try to push you into a lower-quality alternative to maximize profits.

Here’s how to catch on early if a host is playing the double-booking game:

• Disable price filters: Otherwise, you may miss duplicate entries in your searches. Select an alternative rental if you notice the same photos used elsewhere.
• Screenshot your booking: This way, you’ll have proof of what the host offered, in case they try to downgrade your stay or deny details later.
• Let the host cancel: Doing so yourself may result in a partial or no refund. Have the host cancel instead so Airbnb recognizes you weren’t at fault.

Bait-and-switch scams

You may book a beautiful property, only for the host to claim there’s a problem and move you into a smaller or lower-quality rental. By the time you realize it, it’s too late to cancel or reclaim the original property—a bait-and-switch scam at its finest.

These swaps are rarely accidental. Hosts plan them to fill units that are harder to rent or have poor ratings. You end up stuck in a place far below what you expected, frustrated and paying for a stay that doesn’t match the listing.

If your host tries to swap your rental for something worse, here’s what to do:

• Keep conversations on Airbnb: Customer support will then have access to chat logs (and any issues you have with the property) if they need to intervene.
• Refuse downgrades: It can be annoying (and even expensive) to find new lodgings when you’re tired from the road, but don’t give in. Tell Airbnb about it and seek a refund, rather than settle for something subpar.
• Book with trusted hosts: “Guest favorites,” Superhosts, and other top-rated hosts are unlikely to pull a bait-and-switch and ruin your plans.

Off-platform payment scams

Some hosts ask you to pay outside of Airbnb, offering “special deals” or saying it’s to avoid Airbnb fees. However, once you pay through another method, you lose any Airbnb protections. If the host cancels or disappears, you’re unlikely to get your money back.

That said, there are a few situations where off-platform payments are legit, such as:

• When local taxes need to be collected in person
• For pet-related costs, security deposits, and similar fees at hotels
• For extras like parking, equipment rentals, upgrades, and so on (though Airbnb suggests using the Resolution Center for such transactions)

Naturally, all of these need to be clearly disclosed in the listing. Here’s how to tell when a payment request is a scam attempt and protect yourself:

• Watch for red flags: Pressure to act quickly and requests for payment in cryptocurrency, through Venmo, or other platforms are signs of an Airbnb scam.
• Verify extra charges: If their perks and extras aren’t listed in the property’s description, or the host prefers avoiding Airbnb’s Resolution Center, look elsewhere.
• Keep payments on Airbnb: You have a better chance of getting a refund if something goes wrong along the way.

Bogus repair fees

After you check out, a host might claim you damaged the property and charge inflated repair costs. They may accuse you of breaking items that were already worn down and attempt to use Airbnb’s systems to charge you extra fees.

Here are some easy ways to avoid fake repair costs:

• Document the property: Take some pictures or video during check-in and check-out, in case the host tries to pull anything shady.
• Report issues promptly: Send any problems to the host through Airbnb messages to create a record. Even if you stick with trusted hosts as mentioned earlier, it’s nice to make them aware of any issues.
• Dispute charges: Show your arrival and departure photos or videos to Airbnb to defend against false claims.

Undisclosed cameras

Airbnb no longer allows indoor cameras, even if they’re disconnected. Moreover, hosts need to disclose the location of exterior security cameras, the presence of doorbell cameras, and similar devices directly in the listing.

Of course, this doesn’t stop some hosts from ignoring the rules and putting up hidden cameras, even in private areas. Here’s how to protect yourself:

• Stick with transparent hosts: Before you book anything, check that your host lists security cameras and their locations. Legit hosts only use such devices in public areas, unless it’s a sauna or other places where one expects privacy.
• Inspect the rental: On arrival, check the property carefully. Look at electronics, smoke detectors, or odd objects for hidden lenses or blinking lights.
• Scan for hidden cameras: Use a flashlight to sweep private spaces like bedrooms or bathrooms. Small reflections can reveal concealed devices. Another method is to turn off the lights and use your phone camera to look for infrared lights (IR). To check if your phone picks up IR, point it at your TV remote and press some buttons.

Guest Airbnb scams

Scams aren’t limited to hosts—guests can also abuse the platform. Some use Airbnb scams to avoid payments, sneak in extra people, cause property damage, or hack into your account. Read on for what you can expect.

Phishing scams disguised as booking inquiries

Nothing strange about guests asking questions about your property. Of course, some scammers rely on such questions to get you to click on phishing links that mimic Airbnb’s own login page. Once you enter your credentials or other sensitive information, hackers can immediately gain control of your account.

Protect yourself against phishing attempts with these tips:

• Avoid shady links: Don’t click on URLs from guests unless Airbnb confirms they’re safe. They could lead to fake login pages or install malware on your system.
• Check for phishing signs: Be wary of emails with strange addresses, odd formatting, or clumsy grammar—all common red flags. Then again, poor grammar and formatting are less reliable indicators now thanks to AI-generated text.
• Use Airbnb directly: Instead of following links, always open Airbnb’s website or app on your own to confirm guest details and respond safely.

Fake guest accounts

Scammers may use blank accounts to cause damage, hold parties, or extend their stay beyond the agreed date. Without a way to identify them, you’re left to foot the bill or deal with potentially dangerous squatters.

Here’s how to spot fake profiles before they book your place:

• Scan their profile: A real account usually has a photo, previous host reviews, and Airbnb’s “Identity verified” badge. These signs can help weed out fake profiles, though they’re not foolproof.
• Ask questions: No need to turn it into an interrogation, but a couple of reasonable questions—such as what time they’re able to check in, the number of guests, or what brings them to the area—should give you a rough idea if they’re legit or not.
• Don’t be afraid to decline: If their Airbnb profile is missing key details and their replies seem fishy, trust your gut and refuse.

Off-platform messaging

A guest may try to move your chat off Airbnb using excuses like faster contact or “saving you fees.” Once you leave the platform, the scammer can send phishing links, request bank transfers, or pressure you with fake emergencies without any record inside Airbnb.

Avoid being lured off Airbnb with these tips:

• Keep chats on Airbnb: Staying on the platform provides a paper trail to support you if something goes wrong.
• Avoid outside apps: While they may be more convenient, guests shouldn’t need WhatsApp, Telegram, or others. Stick to Airbnb messaging only.
• Report shady requests: If someone pushes for off-platform contact, alert Airbnb right away.

Fake overcharge scams

Scammers may claim they paid for an extra they didn’t actually need, such as pet fees or booking for more people than required. They ask you to return the difference, usually through services like PayPal or Venmo. Later, you discover the payment was canceled or made with a stolen credit card, and you lose the money you sent.

Stop overpayment scams with these steps:

• Use the Resolution Center: Handle all extras through Airbnb’s system so the payments are protected.
• Reject outside refunds: Never pay guests back through external platforms like Venmo, PayPal, or others.
• Verify overpayments: If a guest claims they paid too much, confirm through Airbnb before returning a cent.

Surprise guests

A guest may book for two but arrive with a crowd, claiming some friends are “just visiting.” If they throw parties, this could lead to property damage, noise complaints, or other safety issues you didn’t sign up for.

This may be tougher to avoid, but here are some pointers to avoid unwanted visitors:

• Set clear rules: Outline your guest policy in the listing and cap the number of people allowed. Banning parties can also reduce the risk of damage.
• Install a video doorbell: This lets you monitor arrivals without breaking Airbnb’s privacy rules. Just don’t forget to disclose it in your listing.
• Ask upfront: Check in on guest plans before confirming a booking to avoid surprises, while also being mindful of their privacy.

Late cancellation

Some guests abuse Airbnb policies by booking multiple properties and canceling at the last minute. These late cancellations can leave you with empty dates that are hard to rebook, causing lost income and added stress.

The pattern is especially harmful if it happens repeatedly with the same guest. Even if cancellation fees apply, it can still disrupt your schedule and make managing your listing more difficult.

Here’s how to cut down on late cancellations:

• Follow Airbnb’s rules: Rely on the platform’s cancellation policies instead of making up your own deals, and don’t hand out extra refunds unless there’s a real need.
• Flag repeat cancelers: If you notice the same guest canceling often, report it. Airbnb can step in and review the behavior.
• Check host feedback: See reviews from other hosts to spot red flags. Consistent complaints about cancellations or troublemaking can help you steer clear.

Common Airbnb scams and security threats

Some Airbnb scams come from outside the platform, and may involve phishing emails or texts, fake two-factor authentication (2FA) codes, and even employment fraud. More details below.

Scam emails or text messages

Hackers may obtain your email and phone number from data brokers or after one of the many data breaches nowadays. They then bombard you with phishing emails and texts, luring you into clicking on suspicious URLs.

Such links lead to Airbnb mimic websites designed to steal your data—whether it’s login credentials, payment info, or other sensitive details.

Here’s how to identify and protect yourself against Airbnb text scams:

• Messages with a sense of urgency: Scams often use alarmist language (e.g., “Urgent action required”, “Your bookings are on hold until we verify payment”) to force you to act without thinking.
• Unofficial sender details: Look over the official Airbnb domain list. If the email doesn’t end in one of those, report and delete it.
• Generic greetings: Airbnb emails always use your real name. Avoid texts that start off with “Dear Customer” or similar greetings, no matter how legit they look otherwise.
• Use the Airbnb app or website: If there’s actually something that needs your attention, you should get a notification when you log into the Airbnb site or app.

Note: Hosts in countries like Italy, Hungary, and France need to collect ID info to comply with local laws. If you’re not comfortable sharing your ID through a link the host sends you, ask if it’s possible to show it in person. Legit hosts usually agree.

Airbnb verification code scams

A common trick involves scammers asking for a verification code you receive by text. They often pose as support agents or hosts, saying it’s required for booking or troubleshooting. Sharing it gives them access to your account or ties your number to their scams.

Prevent Airbnb verification code scams with these tips:

• Never share codes: Anyone requesting a verification code is trying to hijack your account. Airbnb reps never ask for personal information, including authentication codes.
• Use extra security: Turn on 2FA to secure your login. Stick to Airbnb’s official app or website and never type codes into third-party apps.
• Report shady requests: If someone asks for a code by text, email, or call, report them to Airbnb support to prevent further attempts.

Airbnb job scams

Fake job scams are nothing new, and Airbnb gets tied to these schemes just as any other business. Fraudsters impersonate their recruiters and send out fake offers for roles like customer service or management, using Airbnb branding to trick job seekers.

The scheme ends either with you losing money on bogus “training fees” or having your personal information stolen and used in further scams. Avoid Airbnb job scams with these tips:

• No upfront payments: Real Airbnb jobs don’t charge application or training fees, nor do any other employers, for that matter. Any requests for money are scams.
• Verify offers properly: Only trust opportunities listed at careers.airbnb.com. Be wary of random emails or messages offering work out of nowhere.
• Protect your data: Don’t give out sensitive info like payment data or IDs unless you’re sure you’re speaking to Airbnb. Scammers often impersonate recruiters.

Related: How to check if someone is using my identity

Avoid Airbnb scams: Tips for guests and hosts

New Airbnb scams pop up all the time, but a few tried-and-true tips can keep you safe, whether you’re renting out a property or booking one.

How to avoid Airbnb scams as a guest

• Stick to Airbnb for all bookings: Make sure every reservation and payment happens on Airbnb to stay protected.
• Review host history: Hosts with detailed bios and verified reviews are safer to book with, especially if they’re Superhosts or “Guest favorites.”
• Limit what you share: Avoid handing out phone numbers, emails, or anything that’s not essential for your reservation.
• Reverse search photos: Google Images and similar services can help you avoid wasting money on fake listings.
• Ask for a video preview: Have the host show you around to confirm what you’re paying for is the real deal.
• Look for duplicate listings: Hosts may also list the property on sites like Booking.com, or double-book it on Airbnb using multiple accounts and different price points.
• Secure your account: Use a reliable password manager to generate complex passwords, and enable 2FA as an additional layer of security—preferably with an authenticator app, as hackers can intercept SMS-based codes.

How to avoid Airbnb scams as a host

• Vet your guests: Check their profiles, reviews from other hosts, and discuss travel plans. Look for the “Identity verified” badge.
• Stick to official channels: Document any issues and handle property damage claims directly on Airbnb, not off-platform.
• Lock up important items: Remove items guests shouldn’t access from the premises or store them securely.
• Watch for suspicious links: Don’t trust fishy emails or links, and always use the official Airbnb site or app to deal with reservation or account-related problems.
• Track reservation trends: Alert Airbnb if you notice repeated last-minute cancellations or suspicious messages, as this could indicate coordinated scams or guests trying to manipulate your availability.

How to tell if an Airbnb is sketchy

An Airbnb can feel sketchy if the listing has very few photos, generic descriptions, or inconsistent reviews. Hosts who pressure you to pay fast or dodge direct questions are also red flags. Watch for these warning signs:

• Missing verification. Unverified accounts often carry more risk. Choose verified hosts and guests to lower your chances of running into trouble.
• Unclear or brand-new listings: Legit rentals show full details, photos, and amenities. Treat any vague, review-free ads with extra caution.
• New or empty profiles: Scammers usually rely on blank accounts, so be cautious when dealing with hosts or guests with no reviews, photos, or bios.
• Inconsistent details. If photos, location, or other details don’t match the host’s story, ask about them. You may even catch the scammer in the act.
• Prices too good to be true: Listings far cheaper than others nearby are often Airbnb scams using stolen images or fake reviews.
• High-pressure tactics. Fraudsters may claim other people are about to book the property, so don’t let them push you into acting too fast.
• Strange links. Messages with links to “confirm” bookings usually lead to phishing sites that steal your data.

What to do if you get scammed on Airbnb

Falling for a scam on Airbnb can sting, especially when it interferes with your trip plans. Keep a cool head and follow these steps to deal with the problem as soon as possible:

• Gather evidence: Keep track of your conversations on or off Airbnb, have your transaction history handy, and take photos of the property immediately after arriving to avoid “repair” charges, double booking, or other issues.
• Get in touch with Airbnb support: Sure, they don’t have the best track record. But show them proof of being scammed, and they’ll be able to assist you more quickly.
• Alert your financial institutions: Your bank, credit card company, PayPal, and others can help you lock down your account, retrieve stolen funds, and more. Useful in case you paid for your stay on Airbnb.
• Report the problem to the authorities: Unreported cameras on the premises, stolen property, or things escalating to actual threats are grounds for calling the police, and will make it easier to recover losses through Airbnb or your card provider.
• Reset your passwords: If you get scammed on Airbnb through a phishing link or “code verification”, drop everything and change your password. Turning on 2FA and using a password manager can protect against such scams.
• Check your accounts regularly: Keep an eye on your transaction history and check for suspicious logins until you’re in the clear.
• Report scams and inform other users: Report suspicious profiles directly to Airbnb so they can take action, and leave honest feedback to alert other travelers. If the profile disappears, you can still warn others in forums or travel groups.

Airbnb scams FAQs