Suspicious message

[Mike3623]

I received a suspicious looking message from 佳琪 asking to book my place for two months. How can I tell if this is a fraud?

[Joelle43 · Accepted solution]

Hi @Mike3623 

There are loads of posts here on the CC of hosts receiving " too good to be true" bookings so you're right in being cautious.  Is this a brand new profile, created recently, no reviews?

I imagine you have received an enquiry rather than a Trip request right?  If you're in doubt, if you see a "pre-approval" option then it's just an enquiry.  Only need to reply to the guest to maintain your response time. Ask them all sorts of questions, send them your house rules and wait for their reply.  

IF they reply, they'll probably ask you for a video - red flag.  If you get to this stage, come back and we'll tell you how to proceed!

If you want to know more about the difference ways guests can contact us, read on:

https://community.withairbnb.com/t5/Host-guides/GUIDE-Handling-Enquiries-and-Bookings/td-p/1895831

All the best
Joëlle

[Mike3623]

OK, thank you for the advice!

[Mike3623]

Yes, it's a brand new profile, created recently, with no reviews, and it's an enquiry rather than a Trip request. I messaged him or her back asking some questions.

[Alex]

Hey @Mike3623, 

Thank you so much for sharing your question with the Community. I hope Joelle’s comment was helpful for you, did it make it easier to analyze their profile? If you have any more questions, we’re here for you!

Also, I found in the Help Center some links that will give you more information in order to prevent fraud. These are the links:

• Avoiding fraud, scams, and abuse.

We hope this information is helpful and supports you in preventing fraud.

Best, 

Alex