New request following declined request

[Mary1745]

I am a brand new host who just listed my property 2 days ago.  Within hours I had my first request.  Unfortunately, that person had only 3 reviews -- one of which was terrible (ignored house rules, had more guests than registered, damaged property, left mess, took items) so I declined his request and gave the reason as his recent poor review from his host.  He also gave the host a terrible review but it was her only bad review out of dozens. Now other person from the same town with a brand new profile (with only a phone number - no photo, reviews or other verification) has requested the same dates for the same number of guests. Obviously, I think this is either the same person or another guest in his party so I would like to decline.  But I don't know what to say for the reason and I'm worried I'll be "punished" for declining my first 2 of 2 requests. Advice? 

[Dana195]

I don't think you have to give a reason but I would just say " disobeyed duplicate request"

You can put in your booking setting cutest requirements. Including certain ratings, so it's all good. 

[Mary1745]

thank you!

[Anonymous]

@Dana195 "Booking Requirements" such as having prior positive reviews or verifications only apply to Instant Book. Airbnb does not offer settings that restrict a new profile from submitting reservation requests.

[Dana195]

I meant certain requirements not cutest

[Anonymous]

@Mary1745  Go ahead and decline it. And perhaps block one of the days in their requested period to prevent them from attempting to book again.

Shame on Airbnb for presenting reviews of guests but at the same time making hosts feel like they'll be punished for heeding them. You might get an automated warning for declining, but just ignore it. These guests are bad news, under no circumstances should you allow them.

[Mary1745]

Thank you!!

[Branka-and-Silvia0]

@Mary1745  in such situations I do exactly what @Anonymous  said - I immediately block one day in the middle of the requested period and leave it blocked for a few days until they find another accommodation. Then I unblock it.

[Mary1745]

Thank you!