VRBO Scams | Identify And Report

Vacation rentals by owner (VRBO) has become a popular platform for travelers seeking unique accommodations. However, as with any popular service, there are individuals who exploit it for fraudulent activities. In this article, we will delve into the various types of VRBO scams, how to identify them, and steps to protect yourself whether you are a renter or an owner.

Common VRBO Frauds

Fake VRBO Inquiries

One prevalent scam involves fake VRBO inquiries. Scammers pose as interested renters and reach out to owners with the intention of phishing for personal information or money. These fraudulent inquiries often contain red flags such as poor grammar, overly eager or unrealistic requests, and attempts to move the conversation off the VRBO platform.

How to Spot a Fake Inquiry:

Unusual Email Addresses: Scammers often use email addresses that look suspicious or do not match the name they are using.
Grammar and Spelling Mistakes: Poorly written messages can be a sign of a scam.
Requests for Personal Information: Be wary if an inquiry asks for sensitive personal information upfront.
Urgency and Pressure: If the potential renter is overly insistent or pressures you to make quick decisions, it’s a red flag.

Fake VRBO Listings

Another common scam involves fake VRBO listings. These are non-existent properties advertised on the platform to lure unsuspecting renters into paying deposits or full rental fees. Scammers create convincing profiles and listings with stolen photos and fabricated reviews.

How to Identify Fake Listings:

Too Good to Be True: Listings that offer luxurious accommodations at unbelievably low prices should be scrutinized.
Inconsistent Details: Compare the listing details with the photos and reviews. Inconsistencies can be a sign of a fake listing.
Payment Outside the Platform: Always pay through the VRBO platform. Requests for payment via wire transfer or other methods should raise immediate suspicion.

VRBO Rental Scams

VRBO rental scams often involve bait-and-switch tactics where the property described is not the property you receive. In some cases, scammers will double-book properties, leaving renters stranded upon arrival.

Protecting Yourself from Rental Scams:

Research the Property: Conduct thorough research on the property and the owner. Look for reviews and verify details independently.
Use VRBO’s Communication Tools: Keep all communications and transactions within the VRBO platform to benefit from their protection policies.
Verify the Owner: If possible, speak with the owner directly over the phone and ask detailed questions about the property.

VRBO Scams for Owners

Owners are not immune to scams either. VRBO scams for owners can include fraudulent chargebacks, where a renter disputes a legitimate charge, resulting in the owner losing both the rental fee and the rental dates.

Preventing Scams as an Owner:

Screen Renters Carefully: Take the time to screen potential renters thoroughly. Look for reviews or references if available.
Secure Payments: Use VRBO’s secure payment system to avoid fraudulent chargebacks.
Insurance and Protection Plans: Consider investing in insurance or VRBO’s protection plans for additional security.

Payment Fraud

Scammers might request payment outside the VRBO platform, often through wire transfers or untraceable methods, leading to payment fraud.

How to Avoid Payment Fraud:

Pay Through VRBO: Always use VRBO’s payment system, which offers protection against fraud.
Avoid Wire Transfers: Never send money via wire transfer or other untraceable methods.
Verify Payment Requests: Be cautious if the owner asks for payment via unfamiliar methods or changes the payment instructions last minute.

How to Report and Respond to VRBO Scams

If you encounter a scam or suspect fraudulent activity, it is crucial to report it to VRBO immediately.

Report the Listing/Inquiry: Use VRBO’s reporting tools to flag suspicious listings or inquiries.
Contact Customer Support: Reach out to VRBO’s customer support team to report the issue and seek guidance.
Document Everything: Keep records of all communications and transactions. This documentation can be crucial if a dispute arises.

Staying Safe on VRBO

Tips for Renters:

Use Verified Listings: Look for listings with verified badges or reviews from previous renters.
Communicate Within the Platform: Avoid moving conversations to external platforms until you have verified the legitimacy of the listing and owner.
Read Reviews: Pay close attention to reviews and ratings from previous renters. Look for patterns that might indicate fraudulent activity.

Tips for Owners:

Keep Information Updated: Regularly update your listing with accurate information and current photos.
Respond Promptly: Quick responses to inquiries can deter scammers looking for easy targets.
Use Secure Payment Methods: Always use VRBO’s secure payment systems to handle transactions.

By staying vigilant and informed, both renters and owners can protect themselves from the various scams that occur on VRBO. Always conduct thorough research, use the platform’s security features, and trust your instincts when something feels off. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of VRBO without falling victim to fraud.

Remember always to leave a review to educate the public because that’s the best prevention against scams. Or Join our Social Media Groups To Avoid Such Scams