We shouldn’t have to worry about whether our rentals are safe and legitimate while traveling, but that’s the unfortunate reality in a world of Airbnb and Vrbo. In 2025, almost 10,000 vacation scams were reported, but with some knowledge and care, you can avoid these scams. The team at Ooma makes this task easier with a new infographic packed with safety tips. One of the leading travel risks is rental scams. These scams can be bait-and-switches used for theft, and in some cases, the rentals may not exist at all. Vacation rental scams can take these forms: • A luxurious rental is not as portrayed and might be located in a dangerous area. • Last-minute rental cancellations with no refunds. • Rental asks you to relocate due to rental “issues” to a property in poor condition. • Arrive at the vacation property and find it doesn’t exist. • Food delivery offered on a fake menu used to steal credit card information. • “Free Wi-Fi” that steals your information. Now that you know the common scams, what are the ways you can protect yourself from them? The team offers these tips: • Check for multiple ways to contact the rental owner and make sure their contact information has a local area code. • Ask the rental agent questions about the area, even simple things like places to eat and visit. This can help verify that they’re a local renting in good faith. • Don’t rush into a rental decision. Do your research and beware of any rental owners who attempt to pressure you into renting. • Check your rental on Google Maps Street View and make sure it matches the images included. If there’s a front desk, call to verify its authenticity. • Use credit cards for transactions whenever possible. Be wary of a renter who asks for cash, gift cards, or wire transfers. If you’re using an app like Airbnb, always pay through that platform. • Don’t share personal information, like Social Security or bank account numbers. A legitimate rental will never ask for these. • Check your rental for refund policies. Most legit rentals should have one. • Never agree to last-minute alternatives the host offers.
