Staying safe from scams and fraud
How to identify and avoid fraudulent listings and communications.
4 min readUpdated 8 Jan 2025
While rare, scams do occur. Learn how to protect yourself.
Red flags
- Prices significantly below market rate
- Requests to pay outside the platform
- Pressure to book immediately
- Requests for unusual personal information
- Poor quality or stock photos
- Provider unwilling to answer questions
Stay safe
- Only pay through Barn & Bay
- Never share bank details or passwords
- Use platform messaging, not personal email/phone
- Verify listings seem legitimate before booking
- Trust your instincts - if it seems too good to be true, it probably is
Report suspicious activity
If you suspect fraud, report it immediately through the platform. We take all reports seriously.
Frequently asked questions
What if I've already sent money outside the platform?
Contact your bank immediately to report potential fraud, then report to us and the police.
Does Barn & Bay verify all listings?
We verify providers and properties, but remain vigilant and report anything suspicious.
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