What is the "Online Villa Scams for Highland Stays" scam in Bandung?

Question

Accepted Answer

The volcanic highlands around Bandung — particularly Lembang, Ciwidey, and Farmhouse Lembang — are popular for villa rentals, and a number of fraudulent listings on Instagram, Facebook Marketplace, and local booking sites use stolen photos of legitimate properties. Victims pay deposits or full amounts upfront and arrive to find either a different, inferior property or no property at all. Book highland villas only through established platforms with verified reviews (Airbnb, Traveloka, Booking.com) and never through Instagram DMs or Facebook Marketplace. Verify the property independently using the exact address before transferring any payment. Call the listed number before booking to confirm direct contact with the property owner.

Accommodation Scams in Bandung

Online Villa Scams for Highland Stays

Experienced a scam here?