What is the "Fake Vacation Rental Listing" scam in San José?

Question

Accepted Answer

Fraudulent vacation rental listings targeting tourists planning stays in Barrio Amón, La Sabana, or residential neighborhoods near San José collect deposits or full payment for properties that do not exist at the listed address or are already occupied. These scams operate through Facebook Marketplace, WhatsApp-based rental groups, and occasionally cloned listings on legitimate platforms. The fraudster typically insists on direct bank transfer or Western Union payment to avoid platform fee "surcharges." Book accommodation only through major platforms (Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia) using their in-platform payment systems — never transfer money directly to a landlord or via WhatsApp. Verify the property address on Google Street View before paying. Be suspicious of properties priced 30% or more below comparable listings in the same neighborhood. If a host requests payment outside the platform, report and find another listing.

Accommodation Scams in San José

Fake Vacation Rental Listing

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