Recent fraudulent Instant bookings

[Peter146]

We are sending this feedback with some very deep concern for the security of hosts and pre-existing guests.

By allowing Brand New Travelers able to instant book Gives them immediate access to properties.

By the definition of New Travelers we are talking about same day new accounts getting Instant book access.

Immediate security measures need to be taken, as recently we have noticed five or six fraudulent bookings Including one very recent attempt by one fraudulent guest using two new fake accounts.

This very recent action taken by fraudulent guests who open fake accounts or get access to take over existing accounts have been able to access properties with Instant book and then easyly gaining  access to entry codes of properties with keypad access.

Our recommendations are for new travelers including there guests must earn the trust of hosts by having atleast five genuine reviews.

All guests must include their credit card and ID to match the same name.
All new guests need to include updates on the same day as booking , for example  reconfirm bank credit verification sent out to airbnb including the host prior to any access to instant book properties .

Prior to entry of property all guests and visitors must have government ID prior to entering any property.

Note any unannounced guests or visitors are subject to immediate removal from property and if uncooperative will be removed by law enforcement as per house rules or AirBNB rules & regulations.

We strongly recommend a checkbox be an added feature for new guests with understanding they will need to bring government ID including all visitors prior to entry of any building/property.

Same day bank Credit card ID verification number should also be a immediate requirement this will help eliminate and avoid fraudulent accounts.

 Any feedback on the above ideas will be much appreciated for the  continued security of our family staff members and honest guests.

[Anonymous]

@Peter146   I like your suggestions, and I am absolutely certain they will never be implemented.

Unfortunately for hosts, it's in Airbnb's interest (read: profit) to make the booking process as frictionless as possible, even for brand-new user accounts. And the loopholes in the system will only become easier for fraudsters to game. So it's imperative that hosts put their own security measures in place. 

Airbnb does allow you to change your Instant Book settings or disable it altogether, and you are always in control of when you give out your keycodes. My recommendation: wait until the check-in date to send them to the guest via Airbnb messenger, and change them between every guest.

[Gregory87]

I agree with you, @Peter146 , about being careful when accpeting instant bookings.  So @Anonymous is correct about it being highly unlikely that Airbnb will change their protocols.  Therefore, I don't accept same day bookings.  The user MUST have a verified ID (in addition to other items to have the option for instant book).  Codes for entry are not issued until I feel confident regarding the identity of the renter. 

Often, for a quick turnaround instant book (IF s/he qualifies), I will still require photo ID (DL, passport, etc) be shown at the door.  The full name of ALL guests must be provided and ID shown.  I carry insurance separate from Airbnb's guarantee.  Also, can immediately disable or delete door code if there are any questionnable behaviors.

The best defense is a proactive host!

[Helen3]

Hello @Peter146 

Personally I wouldn't accept same day bookings.

You can't expect guests to have five reviews as a) not everyone travels with Airbnb that much and b)not all hosts unfortunately take the time to review their guests.

You do of course have the option to only accept guests with previous reviews on IB - if you are accepting same day bookings, I would suggest you check this setting.

And of course tick the box to only accept guests with photo ID.