How Can I Verify the Authenticity of Enquiries I Receive? Q&A

Verifying the authenticity of enquiries is essential to avoid scams and ensure you're dealing with genuine guests. Here are some effective steps to help confirm if an enquiry is legitimate:

1. Check the Email Address and Grammar
   Look at the sender’s email address for any inconsistencies. Official enquiries usually come from professional or personal email addresses, not generic or suspicious-looking ones. Also, check for unusual grammar or spelling mistakes, as these are often red flags.

2. Request Details
   Ask the potential guest for specific details about their trip, like dates, number of guests, and any special requests. Real guests are usually responsive and provide clear answers. Scammers, on the other hand, tend to avoid specifics and may respond with vague information.

3. Look for Payment Requests or Suspicious Links
   Be cautious if the sender is quick to offer payment upfront (especially via check or unusual methods) or if they include links in their messages. Real guests don’t typically pay without a confirmed booking, and they rarely send external links unless requested.

4. Use Your Booking Platform’s Messaging System
   If you’re listed on a booking platform, keep all communications within the platform. Many platforms have built-in fraud detection and can verify enquiries. Messages on external platforms or apps can’t be monitored for security, so it’s safer to keep things centralized.

5. Check for Overly Generous or Unusual Offers
   Watch out for enquiries that sound "too good to be true," like offers for long-term bookings or unusually high payments. Authentic guests generally book standard stays and don’t offer excessive payment or advance checks.

Look for generic messages that lack specific details about your property or service. Enquiries with poor grammar, unusual requests, or excessive urgency may indicate fraudulent intent.

Yes, always check the email address and phone number provided. Scammers often use free, disposable email services or international numbers that don’t match their claimed location.

Requests for unusual payment methods, overpayment scams, reluctance to provide verification details, or overly eager offers without negotiation are all warning signs.

No, avoid clicking on unknown links or opening attachments from unverified sources, as they may contain malware or phishing attempts.

Yes, a legitimate enquirer should have no problem providing further details about their requirements, travel dates, or business intentions. Scammers often evade direct questions.

Yes, be wary of enquirers offering to pay more than required or requesting refunds before the transaction is complete. Verify all payments through secure methods.

Yes, searching for the enquirer’s name, email, or phone number online can reveal red flags such as scam reports or inconsistent information.

Avoid engaging further, do not share personal or financial details, and report the enquiry to the relevant platform or fraud prevention authorities.