The popularity of short-term rentals has surged in recent years, but this growth has come with potential pitfalls, particularly concerning scams. Salla Vaahersalo, a resident of Kotka, reported that her vacation property in Kuusamo was being marketed for fraudulent purposes in local Facebook groups. Legal expert Saara Penttilä from the Finnish Landlords' Association noted that while short-term rental scams are not alarmingly prevalent, they do occasionally occur. She stressed the importance of being vigilant when engaging in short-term rentals due to their increasing popularity.

In Vaahersalo's case, her property was advertised at strikingly low prices and featured misleading images that did not accurately represent the rental. Such scenarios raise red flags for potential renters, and experts advise that alarm bells should ring when encountering deals that seem too good to be true. The issue underlines the necessity for both landlords and guests to remain cautious and informed as they navigate the evolving short-term rental landscape in Finland.

As the short-term rental sector expands, it is essential for stakeholders to be aware of the associated risks and implement measures to mitigate scams. This includes educating potential renters about the signs of fraud and encouraging them to verify listings thoroughly. Only through increased awareness can the community reduce the impact of such deceptive practices and safeguard the interests of genuine property owners and renters alike.