Big tech platforms like Airbnb and Uber are widely used. However, they come with risks. Julie Reid, a media scholar from South Africa, explains how scammers exploit these platforms. They spread false information to deceive people.

Reid studied over 600 cases worldwide. Victims were tricked by fake reviews and listings. We asked her five questions about her book.

How Do Scams Work?

Airbnb is a popular platform for renting homes. It connects property owners with travelers. Recently, Airbnb expanded to offer more services like personal trainers or caterers.

Scams on Airbnb take many forms. One common scam is the phantom listing. Scammers create fake listings and take payments from guests. When guests arrive, they find the property doesn’t exist.

Scammers also use fake reviews. They create networks to post positive reviews. This makes their listings seem real.

Bait and Switch Scams

Another common scam is the bait and switch. The scammer tells the guest that the booked property is unavailable. They offer a different property, which is usually worse. The guest ends up paying for a premium rental but gets a substandard property.

Fake Profiles and Payments

Scammers use fake images and descriptions. They also use fake personal profiles. They trick guests into using unsafe payment methods. The scammer then disappears with the money.

Safety Risks

But the danger isn’t just financial. Staying in a stranger’s property can be risky. Criminal hosts can lure guests into dangerous situations. Guests have been assaulted, robbed, or worse.

How Does Misinformation Work?

Delusive speech is a type of misinformation. It is meant to deceive people for criminal gain. It hides in plain sight on trusted platforms like Airbnb and Uber.

Fake listings look real. They are hard to tell apart from genuine ones. Scammers exploit the trust that these platforms have built. Users are already primed to pay for something, making it easy for scammers to trick them.

What Can Airbnb Do?

Airbnb has safety measures in place. These include rapid response teams and travel insurance. They also use technology to stop fake listings.

But these measures aren’t perfect. Scammers can bypass verification with fake documents. Airbnb needs to improve its review system. It should allow honest reviews and remove fake listings quickly.

How Can Users Protect Themselves?

Travelers should be cautious. Here are some tips:

• Ask for recommendations from trusted people.
• Consider booking directly with a hotel instead of using third-party sites.
• Check the property on Google Street View.
• Have a backup plan in case something goes wrong.
• Always buy travel insurance.

Is It Part of a Bigger Problem?

Scams aren’t just on Airbnb. They happen on many platforms. These include dating apps, ride-sharing services, travel sites, and social media.

Reid’s book highlights the risks of using these apps and sites. She hopes to raise awareness about these dangers.

Julie Reid is a Professor at the University of South Africa.