In the cryptocurrency world, an intense game of cat and mouse is unfolding between hackers and their pursuers. According to an investigation by The 404 Media publication, hackers with disclosed identities are employing a new tactic known as “Airbnb-Hopping” to evade abduction and attacks from competing criminal groups.
The Airbnb-Hopping Scheme is straightforward yet effective: hackers use false documents to rent accommodations through Airbnb and frequently move from one place to another. This tactic of constant movement enables them to evade capture, whether by law enforcement or rival criminal factions.
The situation for exposed cybercriminals is growing increasingly precarious. Incidents of attacks on their residences, such as vandalism with bricks and even shootings, have been documented. Some criminals have gone as far as attempting to kidnap their former associates.
The investigation by 404 Media uncovered that hackers are actively seeking out opportunities to acquire established Airbnb accounts with good reputations. This method allows attackers to carry out their schemes more efficiently without raising suspicions among accommodation and service providers. By using established profiles, criminals are able to blend in with regular users, making detection much more challenging.
The escalating tensions in the criminal underworld are evident in the menacing messages exchanged between rival groups. One such message reads: “Continue jumping on Airbnb until I find you.”
The investigation also revealed that at least one member of a group specializing in SIM-swapping and potentially involved in bitcoin theft is actively employing the “Airbnb-Hopping” tactic to conceal their identity and whereabouts.
Airbnb has recently come under scrutiny in the world of cryptocurrency, not just for its potential for evasion. It has been reported that some rented accommodations have been used for cryptocurrency mining, resulting in exorbitant electricity bills for property owners. As a result, many owners have implemented a “No Cryptocurrency Mining” rule for their properties.
In response to inquiries from 404 Media, Airbnb representatives stated that the company mandates verification for both guests and property owners. “Anyone found violating our policies, including attempting to use falsified documents, may be removed from the platform,” the company emphasized.
While acknowledging that no identification process is foolproof, Airbnb underscores the importance of identity verification as a crucial measure to build trust among users regarding the legitimacy of guests and property owners on the platform.