*** AIRBNB SCAM ALERT ***
For the third time this week, I received a call from scammers spoofing Airbnb’s official support number (844-234-2500). The call always follows the same script: they ask whether you have any complaints, claim Airbnb is rolling out new security features, and then say they need to send you a verification code that you must read back to them.
Here’s what’s actually happening:
The scammers go to Airbnb’s website and trigger the two-factor authentication by entering your phone number. Airbnb then texts you the verification code. When you read that code back to the scammers, they immediately use it to access your account, change your password, lock you out, and update your payout information to their own banking information, usually a debit card. They transfer funds from Airbnb immediately with the 1.5% fee for immediate deposit and poof, your money is gone.
Will Airbnb help? No. Because you passed the security check and gave the verification code to the caller, Airbnb considers it authorized activity.
Important: Airbnb will never call you out of the blue with urgent updates and ask you to verify your account. Never give a verification code to anyone who contacts you.
I have already read many posts of people getting scammed but now I am getting these calls too. Did you receive such a call? Hopefully, you did not fall for it.
