Airbnb Rental Scams On The Rise Protect Yourself With These Steps

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A GROWING scam sees fraudsters posing as rental agents, offering homes that are actually Airbnb units, which is an illegal practice.
Just recently, X user @mhmmdhsm exposed a case at Rumah Razak City Residence, where a victim lost RM5,000 after signing a fake agreement. “Please be careful when looking for a rental house,” he said. 
Netizens could find out more about the case at: https://x.com/mhmmdhsm/status/1916295132887867849
The case, although unfortunate, has attracted widespread attention in the cyberspace. There, a good number of netizens posted various suggestions, tips and techniques so people could protect themselves against potential scams. These has been compiled for easy reference.
1/ Verify the property in-person or virtually
As advised by some users, always visit the property or request for a video tour before signing or making payment. In this respect, X user @phalangeR55 warned, “If the ad shows a dining table arranged beautifully. don’t believe it. Most likely it’s an Airbnb unit.” Suspiciously perfect setups can be a red flag.
2/ Check the rental company’s official listings
Buyers should also search the rental company’s official website to confirm the property is listed. If it is not, the ad may be fake. Scammers often copy legitimate listings and change the contact details.
3/ Ensure the payment goes to the agency, not an individual
Be cautious if asked to transfer money to a personal account, as this is a common scam tactic. X user @rizalyaakub recommended, “If using an agent, the first payment should go to the agency.”
4/ Look for red flags in the listings
Fake ads often offer unusually low rent or amazing amenities. Airbnb listings lacking detailed descriptions about amenities, decor, or location should also be avoided.
5/ Ask for official documentation
When viewing a property, request a business card from the agent and verify their ID against the rental company’s records. This ensures you’re dealing with a legitimate representative.
Be wary of high-pressure tactics. Scammers often push for quick payments, like application fees or deposits for properties that do not exist or are already leased. Take your time to verify details.
Last but not least, report those suspicious activities. If you suspect a scam, report it to local authorities and the FTC (web ID: 0).
Sharing experiences, as @nusya__ did about a Shah Alam scam “where 5 people came on the same day to move in,” can help others avoid similar traps.
By staying vigilant and following these steps, you can protect yourself from rental fraud and ensure a safe renting experience. — Focus Malaysia

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