Cancellation penalty when guest wishes to cancel?

[Anke16]

Hi,

I had a booking which I accepted and the guest too, then the guest asked to cancel because it was not in the right area where she needed to be. Which was absolutely fine with me. She send me the cancellation request and I accepted but it tells me that I will get a host penalty because I cancelled? Even when the guest required it? I am confused. Can anyone explain this and how do I avoid a penalty if it wasn't my cancellation?

[Alice-and-Jeff0]

The guest has initiated a cancellation on your behalf... they are saying that you have asked for the cancellation.  Say "no".  You do not agree - you would rather have the booking than an open room.  They will then ask the guest is she would like to cancel and then she will be penalized for cancelling.  

[Anke16]

Thank you!  I think I have already ok'd it.... not knowing that she cancelled on my behalf.

I guess it's too late? I don't know if there is a way to contact Airbnb and tell them? Oh frustration....