How do I know if an Airbnb is legit?

Check the host's profile Airbnb verifies users (both hosts and guests) through several factors, including government IDs, email addresses, and phone numbers. Always check the host's profile to make sure they've uploaded these things—you can find it on the left side of their profile page.



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While Airbnb is a safe option for accommodation when traveling, there are plenty of things you can do to further protect yourself as you explore. Never give your personal contact information to a host or pay outside of the platform. Always pay and communicate through the Airbnb website or app.

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Listings with no reviews coupled with a few red flags should make you stay away as they might be scams. Yes, there are scam listings on Airbnb and you should be wary of them. According to USA Today, a bait-and-switch happens when your host forces you to stay at a different property than the one you booked.

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Here are 10 ways to tell if you are being scammed on your vacation rental or Airbnb:
  1. SKETCHY PAYMENT METHOD REQUESTED. ...
  2. EMAILS AND TEXTS FROM OUTSIDE THE AIRBNB OR RENTAL PLATFORM. ...
  3. SECURITY DEPOSIT REQUIRED BEFORE AGREEMENT SIGNED. ...
  4. OWNER OF RENTAL OR AIRBNB IS CONVENIENTLY OUT OF THE COUNTRY. ...
  5. BAD PHOTOS, ALL 5-STAR REVIEWS.


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If there is a problem with your Airbnb stay, the best option is to contact your host immediately. Airbnb recommends starting a request within 72 hours of noticing the issue to ensure that you're eligible for a full refund (if necessary).

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1. There are more destination photos than house photos. Eliminate listings that show more stock photos of the destination than of the Airbnb property itself. That could indicate any number of issues, from the Airbnb being run down and therefore not being photogenic (or hygienic…) to the listing being fake.

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If there's an emergency, or if your personal safety is threatened while traveling, contact local police or emergency services immediately. You can also: Contact Airbnb to report the issue; we're here 24/7. Read more about how to contact us directly in our Help Center.

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As a new Airbnb user, I recommend you only stick to established hosts when booking your first place. One way to do this is to filter your search so you only see places hosted by “Superhosts”. Superhost status is given to hosts who've earned and maintained Airbnb's highest standards.

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Airbnb doesn't allow for hidden cameras or any other types of concealed recording devices.

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If the property is a new listing, the lack of reviews is normal. It will take some time before the Airbnb gets reviews. It's also likely you'll be among the first to review it should you take the leap.

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If someone has questions about whether your property is right for them, your property manager will help them. When a guest arrives at your property and can't find something, your Airbnb agent will be their point of contact. If something goes wrong during their stay – the Airbnb agent is who they call.

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We may also ask for a photo of your government ID and a selfie. Additionally, certain Experiences require you to verify your identity. Check out our Privacy Policy and learn more about trust and safety at Airbnb.

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Being an Airbnb Superhost is about providing outstanding hospitality, which means being highly-rated, experienced, reliable, and responsive. And while each Superhost has their own unique style, they've earned their status by meeting, and often exceeding, guest expectations.

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We'll automatically send any eligible refund to the payment method you used when you booked the reservation. Our Rebooking and Refund Policy can help cover situations when the listing or amenities are not what you expected. Refund requests of any amount should be handled through our Resolution Center.

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