What can a scammer get?

[Eric-Shi0]

I regularly received inquiries from scammers, most of whom tried to move the conversation off the Airbnb message platform. I did not attempt to communicate with them through any other means besides Airbnb messages; however, I wonder what scammers can actually gain from talking to me on other apps, texts, or emails.

[Patricia2526]

Hi @Eric-Shi0 

Yes, I get them too!! Possibly Phishing for personal info or bypass Airbnb fees. If someone insists on moving off-platform, it’s almost always a red flag and I report the account right away. 

Best Regards

[Inna22]

@Eric-Shi0 they may just want a discount or get your info, I think @Patricia2526 is correct. On the bright side, every time they reach out, you get a boost to your listing. As long as you stay safe and do not engage, it is actually a good thing! I would respond with a period or some other symbol so you retain your response rate and then report them

[Eric-Shi0]

I faced an issue where some scammers managed to book my place as soon as I enabled instant booking, but they never completed the payment. As a result, Airbnb temporarily blocked my listing for the period that the scammers had chosen and waited for the payment for 24 hours. After that time passed, the block was lifted, but I unfortunately lost a full day of visibility on the platform.