Top Airbnb Scams of January 2025

If you’ve heard about house scams on Airbnb, you may be a bit concerned about using the service. Is Airbnb safe to use when planning your next trip? That depends on various factors, but we'll show you the top Airbnb scams to watch out for and tips to plan that fun vacation while avoiding these mishaps.

There are more than 5 million Airbnb hosts on the platform, so it stands to reason that not all of them are legitimate.[1] Before booking your next trip, be cautious and look for these Airbnb scams, and consider using one of our recommended identity theft protection services for even more protection.

1. Fake listings

Fake Airbnb listings happen when fraudulent hosts list properties that belong to someone else or don’t exist. When they communicate with you, they’ll try to convince you to do so outside of the Airbnb platform. These hosts give you their personal contact information and lure you into paying them directly rather than through the authentic Airbnb website.

You can spot this scam when someone asks you to pay outside the official Airbnb platform. Be wary of requests to wire payments, pay through a bank transfer, or send money orders. As a general rule, keep all conversations and transactions on Airbnb’s official platforms.

If you’re dealing with this scam, you should report it to Airbnb immediately. If you happen to book a fake listing, Airbnb will protect your money until you check in — so long as you stay on its platform.

2. Inaccurate property descriptions

This scam lists property descriptions and amenities you won’t find when you arrive. An example would be a fantastic beach property description that ends up being infested with bugs and has no air conditioning.

These scammers may get blocked from using Airbnb once you report the issue. Unfortunately, that happens after you’ve arrived at the property.

You may be able to spot this bait-and-switch house scam when listings have less than 100 reviews but have been on the service for a while. If you suspect a listing is inaccurate, a reverse image search will help provide more details. You can enter an image URL, and the image search shows you where the image originated and how it’s been used.

3. Phishing scams

If Airbnb asks for a valid ID, don't be alarmed. Verifying your identity is part of staying anywhere. Your identification isn’t shared with your host.

Getting a random message outside the Airbnb site could be a phishing scam. If you get an email or text asking you to provide your ID for booking confirmation, don’t provide any personal information — especially if you’ve not already checked it out or asked for a booking. If you have any suspicions, contact Airbnb, and don’t share your information with anyone else.

4. Fake reviews

You probably look for favorable reviews when booking a trip. Con artists will manipulate reviews by creating fake accounts and enlisting the help of friends to write reviews, and some hosts may review their properties.

Before getting out your credit card, do your due diligence and look for fake reviews by avoiding new accounts with only a few reviews that are all stellar. If something seems off, reach out to the Airbnb host. Discuss the property and any concerns or questions you have, and look for professionalism in your exchange.

5. Hidden cameras

Cameras are allowed by Airbnb, but they must be placed in common spaces such as dining or living rooms. The hosts must also be upfront and let renters know about the devices. Hidden cameras are not allowed.

Not all Airbnb hosts will follow these rules. If you see devices plugged into outlets like phone chargers or Wi-Fi routers, they may be disguises for hidden cameras. If you feel you’re renting a home with hidden cameras, you can sweep your rooms, look for lens reflections in vents or decorations, and check behind furniture. 

You can also download a free app to check the rental for hidden cameras. (You will need a magnetic sensor in your smartphone for the security app to work.)

6. Fraudulent charges

Extra charges can come in the form of things such as damage fees. Some homeowners request damage fees to protect themselves from renters who don’t take care of the property. Some guests damage homes and cause financial issues for the host.

Still, there are Airbnb hosts who use this feature to scam renters into paying extra charges. You can spot this scam if you get contacted by the host about damages you know you didn’t cause.

The best way to protect yourself is to take pictures or videos when you check into and out of the unit. If you notice damages when you arrive, email the Airbnb host immediately so there’s a record of it. If they’re an honest host (and you, in fact, did not cause the damages), they should help you resolve the situation.

If the host still expects you to pay what you believe is a fraudulent fee, you can file an appeal with Airbnb, who will then make the final decision.

Tips to avoid Airbnb scams

Can you get scammed on Airbnb? Yes, you can get scammed, but you can also avoid it by knowing what to look for when renting a property. Airbnb offers lots of places to stay and often gives renters great prices.

Here’s how to avoid the most common Airbnb scams as you plan your next vacation:

1. Check your host’s profile and look for anything odd, like requests to use payment systems outside Airbnb.
2. Confirm you’re renting a legal listing by using a reverse image search.
3. Always remain on the Airbnb app or website when communicating with your host.
4. Safeguard your account by using a dedicated password manager.
5. Avoid last-minute bookings because you may be rushed and overlook red flags.
6. Request virtual tours of properties.

FAQs

Bottom line

Despite Airbnb scams circulating, it’s still a great service offering variety and good pricing for many guests anytime. If you’re concerned about getting caught in a housing scam, use our tips and consider using extra security measures, such as a password manager.

You don’t have to fear using popular online booking methods when you know what scams to watch for and how to avoid them. Take your time when looking for an Airbnb rental, and always stay on the official Airbnb platform. By using some safety methods, you’ll have a fun and secure vacation experience.

If you want to keep a step ahead of scammers on Airbnb and other sites, check out the best identity theft protection services with credit reporting for an easy way to lock down your accounts.