As more travelers choose to book their holidays online, often opting to rent short-term rentals like Airbnb, the risk of scams, ranging from fake sites and phishing to credit card fraud, is always lurking.
Notably, the Bank of Greece has reported a total of 349,000 fraud incidents related to electronic transactions, marking a 4% increase compared to 2023.
Airbnb has invested in advanced security measures while educating travelers on how to effectively protect themselves to curb these types of fraudulent practices.
Airbnb recommends users follow these six basic steps to minimize the risks of fraudulent practices:
- Always check the URL:
Before making a booking, ensure you’re on the official Airbnb website. Start your search directly at www.airbnb.gr or use the official Airbnb app. - Avoid clicking suspicious links:
Overreliance on social media—especially among younger users—can increase vulnerability to scams. If you receive a message or see a post and aren’t certain it’s from the official Airbnb, don’t interact or click any links. - Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true or require large deposits:
If an offer looks suspiciously cheap, it probably is. Always review the listing details and compare prices before committing. - Never pay via direct bank transfer:
All bookings and payments must be made strictly through Airbnb’s official platform. If someone asks you to pay or book outside the platform, decline and report the request to Airbnb. - Keep all activity within the Airbnb platform:
For full protection under Airbnb’s AirCover and refund policies, complete your booking, payment, and communication only through the official website or app. - Read reviews and vet listings carefully:
Before booking, read reviews from previous guests, check ratings, and study the listing descriptions thoroughly to understand what’s being offered.
