Sunday 30 June 2024 – 18:30
Even though they were born and raised in the digital age, the new generations are said to be the least careful when it comes to online security. This is what emerges from the 2023 Report of the activities of the postal police and for cyber security, which traces the identikit of the victim: from credit card fraud to phishing on social media, Generation Z and Millennials are said to be victims of scams more than seniors.
On the eve of summer, the State Police and Airbnb have renewed their collaboration to help citizens recognize and avoid bad actors online. The testimonial of the campaign is Marco Camisani Shoemakerswhich already collaborates with the State Police on the issue of online scams.
According to Consumerismo, 1 in 5 Italians declared having suffered at least one scam while shopping online, a percentage that rises to 33.1% in the 25-34 age group: this means that 1 in 3 young people has fallen into ” traps” of e-commerce.
Here are the tips of State Police and Airbnb to avoid falling into the trap of online scams.
1. Check the website address. Whether you use a computer or a smartphone, it is best to check that you are booking through the official platform. The solution is to use the Airbnb app or go directly to the website to make sure you are on the official website (www.airbnb.it).
2. Don’t click on unknown links. Relaxed use of social media can contribute to exposing users to the risk of scams. If you are not sure whether a message or post is from a recognized company, do not share or interact with it or click on any links therein. Airbnb provides guidelines on how to identify an authentic link or email from the platform.
3. Be wary of offers that are too convenient or requests for a deposit.With the cost of living rising, many consumers are looking for great deals; but if a deal or listing seems too good to be true, it could be a scam. It is advisable to take your time to review the listing details and existing reviews, especially if there is a rush for payment.
4. Never pay by bank transfer. This is a payment instrument not permitted by Airbnb. Better to use a credit card, which offers more protection. If you receive a request to pay for a trip via bank transfer, cryptocurrency or gift cards, it is very likely a scam.
5. Book, pay and communicate only on the platform. Some users may be attracted by the proposal to negotiate privately outside the portal to save money. However, this does not allow you to take advantage of Airbnb guarantees, which does not recognize payments made by guests until 24 hours after check-in, while AirCover for guests provides protection for some possible eventualities.
6. Check the reviews. Reading other guests’ opinions is useful to get a clearer idea before booking, checking the ratings and reviews and carefully reading the listing description. You can also ask the host questions via messaging on the platform before blocking your dates.
7. Communicate with the host. Once the booking has been made, before travelling, it is preferable to contact the host to make arrival arrangements and check any particularly important needs. If there is no response, contact customer service immediately.
8. How to report a concern the right wayOn Airbnb, users can report controversial messages directly from internal messaging, while suspicious cases can be reported via a flag on each listing. If you have made a payment off-site, you must immediately contact customer support who is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
