Airbnb has announced a landmark new partnership to help hosts and guests stay safe while online. 
Research from 2017 found that more than 6 million Australians in one year were the victims of cybercrime. Recent research also found that bad actors were likely to target the hospitality industry, with public hotel wi-fi networks identified as a key vulnerability.
In response to the growing threat of cybercrime, Airbnb has partnered with the Centre for Internet Safety. As part of the partnership, the Centre for Internet Safety will produce a report on internet safety and the travel industry, and a new fact sheets for hosts and guests with helpful advice.
Airbnb’s Country Manager for Australia Sam McDonagh said with Australians more connected than ever providing guests with safe, secure internet was increasingly important of being a good host.
“The safety of our community, both online and offline, is our foremost priority. We want to ensure our community has the know-how needed to help keep themselves and their guests stay while online,” Mr. McDonagh said.
“This landmark new partnership with the Centre for Internet Safety will help further protect our local community while online from problems like fraud or identity theft. These simple and practical steps (below) suggested by experts can make a big difference in keeping people safe online.”
Managing Director for the Centre for Internet Safety, Nigel Phair, said the partnership was a significant milestone in protecting guests, hosts and Australia’s $143 billion tourism industry. “More than any other economic activity, the success of Australia as a leading global tourism destination depends on being able to provide a safe and secure environment for visitors,” Mr. Phair said.
“Our partnership with Airbnb will also provide the wider travel industry with internet safety best-practice to ensure travelers and accommodation providers are protected against cybercrime.”
Airbnb regularly works with trusted experts to help keep its community safety. Last year, Airbnb partnered with Crime Stoppers Australia and held a Meet the Experts event, which included presentations from NSW Police and NSW Fire and Rescue.
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