At this point, I don’t even want to risk it. There are just too many scary stories — and I once stayed in a place loaded with cameras! Luckily, I was savvy enough to spot them.
6 signs your vacation rental is a scam
© Mark Winfrey | Dreamstime.com
It’s that time of year when so many of us are planning vacations and booking a rental. Sadly, scammers are very aware of that, and they’re always changing their tricks to fool people out of their money, rentals — or worse.
One of the most prolific thieves scammed people out of $7 million over just two years. He listed 100 properties across the U.S. and accepted 10,000 offers. His bait-and-switch schemes worked … till he got caught.
Being familiar with the red flags can save you from being a victim. And that’s why I’m here today — to give you the know-how.
1. Suspicious photos
Does the picture of that beachfront property look like it’s straight out of a pricey photoshoot? Images that are just a little too polished should raise your eyebrows. Try a reverse image search to see if a pic pops up elsewhere online. How? Open a pic, right-click on it, then choose Search Image or similar in your browser.
2. That doesn’t add up
Some hosts list a property at different price points on multiple platforms. The highest bidder wins, so your stay could get canceled if they find someone who’ll pay more. But wait — it could also be a “phantom rental.” In this scheme, crooks cook up a completely fake listing using a bogus address and photos and run away with your money.
3. Under pressure
When you’re rushed into making a decision, you’re more likely to overlook serious flaws in the listing. A legitimate host won’t rush you into sealing the deal.
4. ‘Can you send me a gift card?’
Always pay through the rental site. Secure payment methods include debit, credit and sometimes a direct bank transfer. Never pay using gift cards, a cash app, crypto or a certified check.
5. Too good to be true
Safety first
🔐 These gadgets are no-brainers to bring on your next trip to protect yourself and your stuff.
- Major security flaws have compromised a huge portion of keycard hotel locks. Easy fix: This doorstop with a built-in alarm (2-pack for $14).
- Traveling with valuables? Bring your own safe. Hotel rooms don’t always have one. This portable option is on sale for $21.
- Whether you’re traveling abroad or just going out at night, take a personal alarm. This sleek option is 20% off and fits on your keychain.
- Only one in four U.S. homes has a carbon monoxide detector. Bet your Airbnb doesn’t. This one’s 32% off!
- Two words: Fanny pack. Wear it across your chest like I do and call it a “cross-body.” This one’s inexpensive and looks great.
🛍️ Miss window shopping? I do mine on Amazon. Hit this page for my “I didn’t know I needed that!” picks.
We may earn a commission from purchases, but our recommendations are always objective.
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🪐 Airbnb, but make it space: NASA’s phasing out the ISS, and now startups like Axiom, Starlab and Blue Origin want to rent you a bed …100 miles above Earth. The vibes range from “luxe scientific Airbnb” to “inflatable gym bag for astronauts.” All racing to launch before 2030. “Room with a view” now means dodging space junk at brunch.
🥳 Airbnb’s anti-party tech: This summer, they’re once again cracking down on high-risk bookings. The system looks at length of stay, how close you live to the rental and whether it’s last-minute. If you get flagged, you’ll be blocked and sent to a different listing. Don’t believe it? Last year, they stopped over 50,000 people.
🌴 It’s not just beds anymore: Airbnb just leveled up with its new services live in 260+ cities. The app now offers spa treatments, private chefs, personal trainers and more. Basically, it evolved from “couch in Berlin” to celebrity-led adventures like Megan Thee Stallion’s anime-themed “Otaku Hottie Quest,” whatever that means.
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😱 Airbnb nightmare: A couple on vacation found a hidden camera above their bed after a steamy evening. Turns out it was disguised as a smoke detector, complete with night vision and remote access. When they opened it, they found an SD card full of other people’s, uh, vacation memories dating back to 2020. No surprise they’re now suing Airbnb. This hidden camera detector ($39.97, 20% off) is essential.
We may earn a commission from purchases, but our recommendations are always objective.
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