March 22, 2025, 9:16 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Renting out an apartment via platforms such as Airbnb can be a lucrative way to earn some extra money on the side. But of course, you need suitable premises for this — or not! There are currently an increasing number of cases of fraud in which alleged providers post accommodation online that either looks completely different or does not exist at all. These false offers are often based on images generated using artificial intelligence (AI). TRAVELBOOK gives tips on how to recognize such fakes.
On social media and dating platforms, more and more people are using image editing programs and artificial intelligence (AI) to appear more attractive and attract potential suitors. It remains to be seen how promising this approach is in the search for true love. Increasingly, however, such technologies are also being used fraudulently. Our colleagues at TECHBOOK recently reported on scams on dating apps that exploit the feelings of people looking for a partner in order to enrich themselves financially. Similar scams can also be found in other areas, such as vacation bookings. The increase in scams involving fake accommodation and tickets has already alerted the consumer advice center.
Overview
Fraud Scams for Vacation Bookings on the Rise
As the consumer advice center writes, vacation dreams can quickly turn into nightmares if, for example, the beautiful accommodation you have booked doesn’t actually exist or you have already fallen into a trap when supposedly booking. The whole thing has long been systematic: fraudsters create professional websites offering package tours, flights, or accommodation. Or they pretend to be genuine and trustworthy providers. This does not even require any special technical knowledge — the sites can easily be put together using existing modular systems from internet providers.
An important tip to avoid falling for fake vacation offers could, therefore, be to only use verified booking sites. Unfortunately, however, you are no longer safe from scammers even there.
AI Images in Ads on Airbnb and Co.
Fraud on Airbnb has been around for a long time. The same applies to Fewo-direkt, where private vacation apartments are rented out, and also to Booking. TRAVELBOOK reported on fake accommodation offers that are circulating there and with which criminals try to scam advance payments. But now, in the run-up to the Easter holidays, the online platform has been forced to issue another warning about increased attempts at fraud. According to the report, vacation apartments that do not actually exist are being advertised with the help of AI images.
Holidaymakers are often seduced by seemingly attractive offers — and apparently more and more often. A study commissioned by Airbnb shows that many people have difficulty recognizing AI-generated images and identifying them as such. They fall for the scam. In such cases, Airbnb recommends reporting the incident immediately, as it falls under fraud prevention. Users are usually entitled to a refund. However, additional challenges may arise, especially if you have already traveled to a location where the booked accommodation does not exist. It is important to note that Airbnb’s AirCover protection program, which is mainly designed for property damage and liability claims, does not cover any further travel-related issues. Therefore, reimbursement of travel expenses is unlikely.
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Tips for Recognizing AI Images on Airbnb, Booking, and Co.
In the above example of AI-generated persons, such as those found on dating portals, it is somewhat easier to recognize manipulation. The natural fall of hair, the reflection in the eyes, or the position of hands cannot yet be depicted very realistically by the AI. Recognizing fakes is somewhat more difficult with objects. But if you pay attention to the following anomalies, you will be well prepared.
- Strange image composition. AI-generated images often have unusual perspectives or distortions that are rare in natural images.
- Irregular patterns. Pay attention to detail and zoom in on questionable areas. In AI images, for example, patterns such as windows or doors may be repeated or appear irregular.
- Slipped or missing characters. AI images often stand out due to blurred or hard-to-read lettering or even missing lettering. The problem with words is well known, which is why these fake clues are often omitted for fraudulent purposes.
- Unnatural play of light and shadow. Take a close look. Does the shadow match the light?
- Strange textures. A closer look is also recommended here. Textures often appear unnatural in AI images. In the case of accommodation, you should, therefore, pay attention to walls and carpets.
On the other hand, images that are too perfect can also indicate that they were generated using AI. “Overly professional images of private accommodation on Booking, Airbnb, or Fewo-Direkt, in particular, should make you sit up and take notice,” warns the consumer advice center.