Forum Topic

Another Air BnB Scam

Two young women have just knocked on my door having tried to get an answer at my neighbour's door.They said that they had rented the house (in Bedford Park) through Air BnB and had paid a £1,800 deposit.  They were expecting to move in today.  Now I know my neighbours (who weren't there), and I know they have never rented their property .  I am 99% certain they have no intention of doing so!  They also had photos of the interior of the house (which I know are false).These poor girls have just finished degrees in Nottingham and Birmingham and thought they were moving in today while they look for jobs down here.  Their "contact" is not answering the phone (surprise surprise)......

Anna Beck ● 2248d4 Comments

Hi Anna That’s awful for them - what a terrible thing to do!!I hope they found accommodation elsewhere.

Georgina Flint ● 2248d

For the avoidance of any doubt, Airbnb aren't the 'bad guys' here. And, if you use their site you're pretty much covered.What generally happens is those who are scammed have either:a) used a copycat, moody site, ie. one that looks like Airbnb but isn't (and there are some tell-tell signs that are pretty obvious, albeit after you've lost out), orb) have gone 'off platform' and accepted a 'special offer' to pay by bank transfer etc.It's just one of the many scams that catch people out from all walks of life, and very sad for those who are victims.

Gordon McDonald ● 2247d

The report about the previous scam that appeared on this site had testimony from the home owner that their property was listed on Air BnB and other homes in the Bedford Park area also had bogus listings.Air BnB ignored a request to comment and now appear to be letting the problem reoccur despite being alerted to it.

Paul Corcoran ● 2247d

Thanks Gordon I didn't know that.  Those poor girls and anyone else who finds themselves in such a terrible position either here or when booking a holiday abroad.

M Dowling ● 2246d