Is it Safe to Make a Booking with Airbnb?

Switching from hotels to Airbnb for your next holiday? You may be having some doubts, such as how secure Airbnb is, how your data will be protected, and whether the hosts are reliable.

Read on to find out more about how Airbnb safeguards both your privacy and personal wellbeing. We also throw in some tips on how to enhance your safety and that of your travel companions when using Airbnb.

Airbnb has seen considerable growth since its start as a niche booking platform where locals would put up their spare rooms for short-term lets. Now, you can book entire properties on Airbnb, and the platform has listings in over 220 countries, spread out across more than 100,000 cities!

Considering the high safety index we experience in Singapore, we run the risk of overconfidence when making overseas bookings. Singaporeans often use Airbnb when travelling to popular destinations such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Japan, and it’s important to exercise caution abroad, where safety standards differ.

One thing to keep in mind is the varying experiences offered by Airbnb in Singapore and other countries. The consumer protection you are entitled to can differ from that offered by hotels. When you book with Airbnb, you can make use of the 24-hour Safety Line via their app, which is available for all guests, even those travelling abroad.

Online safety

To safeguard your contact and payment details, Airbnb employs a secure payment and communication platform. It's crucial to always conduct transactions within Airbnb's protected system and avoid external payment methods like cash. Beware of phishing emails and fake listings – treat it as a red flag if you are directed outside Airbnb’s platform and do not proceed.

Remember that a legitimate host will never request your credit card information or ask for wire transfers. While exchanging personal information and operating outside the platform may seem convenient, it poses significant risks.

Airbnb also incorporates other online security measures, such as multi-factor authentication for logins from new devices and account alerts for any modifications made. While the platform makes use of encryption to keep your data safe, always go one step further by choosing a strong password for your account. A good rule of thumb is not to use the same password as you do for other accounts, including SingPass and banks.

Physical safety

With a network exceeding 5 million hosts, Airbnb actively encourages each one to install and maintain both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. If you are booking an Airbnb listing in Singapore, the platform now enables users to see if each property has smoke detectors and first aid kits – always make it a point to check this information before booking.

It's important to note that Airbnb doesn't automatically guarantee that every listing will possess all desired safety features. Airbnb doesn't routinely inspect properties to ensure the presence of crucial safety measures, such as having a sufficient number of emergency exits and other fire compliance rules. This is especially true of overseas properties that are housed in older buildings, erected before fire compliance rules became regulatory. 

Privacy concerns

As of 30th April 2024, Airbnb has updated its policy regarding CCTVs within properties. Hosts are obliged to disclose all CCTVs installed within their property, and no recording is permitted in private spaces such as bedrooms and bathrooms. Despite that, instances of hidden cameras have been reported, making it vital to take certain measures to protect yourself. Singaporean travellers can do this by covering any suspicious devices you may spot on the property and making use of camera detection apps.

Keep in mind that doorbell cameras and noise decibel monitors are permitted, provided that hosts fully disclose their presence and specific locations to potential guests.

Safety from third parties

Airbnb employs several measures to enhance safety and security. Hosts and guests alike undergo checks against regulatory, terrorist, and sanctions watchlists. Machine learning is utilised to analyse data and identify suspicious activities such as fraudulent listings.

All bookings made through Airbnb are protected under AirCover, making it crucial that you do not make payments outside the platform. For assistance with bookings, refunds, reimbursements, insurance claims, and more, a global customer service team is available around the clock.

To keep yourself and your travel companions safe, always be alert for scams perpetuated by third parties, such as fraudsters pretending to be hosts via WhatsApp. If you are renting shared accommodation, whether that is a room within a flat or a hostel, you will want to consider the safety aspect of being around other travellers. 

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AirCover isn’t just for guests – it covers Airbnb hosts too. If you are planning to become an Airbnb host in Singapore, take note that short-term rentals are not allowed for HDB flats. If you are looking to let out private property, you must make sure it’s available for a minimum of three months (or 92 consecutive days). Before you place your listing, however, you must register with the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA).

Once you are an eligible Airbnb host, you are entitled to the following under AirCover:

• Guest identity verification and reservation screening

• Host damage protection: If a guest causes damage to your property or belongings during their stay and are unable or unwilling to pay for the needed repairs, damage protection has got you covered up to $3,000,000.Host liability insurance: In the event that you are held legally responsible for a guest getting hurt on your property or their belongings sustaining damage, AirCover offers protection up to $1,000,000.

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While Airbnb is a safe option for booking your travel accommodation, there are several tips you can follow to further protect yourself as you explore. These include: 

• Ask questions about listings before booking or arrival. This can help you get to know your host and clarify any questions you might have about the stay, location, check-in process, etc. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t book.

• Never give your personal contact information to a host or pay outside of the platform. All communication and financial transactions should be handled on the Airbnb website or app. This will protect your personal information through Airbnb’s multilayered defense strategy.

• Send your itinerary to a trusted person. If you are traveling solo, always tell a friend or family member where and when you are going and share the listing with them.

• Check the reviews for information about the host and home. Former guests will often offer feedback based on their own recent experience, including in regards to health and safety, which can inform and bring peace of mind.

• Book a stay with a flexible cancellation policy. If unforeseen circumstances mean that you have to cancel your trip, you will be able to get (some of) your money back as long as your cancellation falls within the policy guidelines.

» MORE: How to save money on top hotels

How to maximise your rewards

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