Scam watch during Covid 19 lockdown phase

[Fiona319]

Hi all,

Just wanted to share a scam that appeared this week. First is an enquiry by name of 'Bonny' no ID or contact details called themselves a 'disease specialist' - wanted to book for a week in June 20. They worded a Whats App number for host to message as supposedly have further questions which they didn't ask in Airbnb message, I reported the profile straight away, as I feel it is highly suspect.  

Also a similar enquiry looking for a long term let - may have been using someone else's airbnb account to make enquiries - someone in Sweden who asked if they'd be able to sublet a 2nd bedroom (entire house/1 bed) through airbnb to pay for their stay, I have only 1 bedroom so they didn't pursue enquiry, also tried to put phone numbers, email address in message. As hosts greatly out of pocket from loss of airbnb income we have to be watchful of these enquiries.

Anybody else receiving this type of enquiry?

Fiona, Edinburgh

[Helen350]

Yes, there are umpteen posts like yours in the archives of the CC @Fiona319 . - Use the search feature top right. @Ann72  posted similar just before you, have a look!

https://community.withairbnb.com/t5/Hosting/Spam-inquiry-with-cryptic--WhatsApp-Number/m-p/1055649 

https://community.withairbnb.com/t5/Hosting/New-scam-attempt-quot-disease-specialist-quot-and-respon...