June 2024
Risk from current spoofing attempts
Spoofing attempts, whereby a scammer poses as an owner of Playa Linda weeks in a rental transaction,
remain a risk when seeking to rent directly from an owner. In the past, by utilizing information gained from
our bulletin board, we have witnessed attempts by scammers who pose as an owner by using a similarlooking email address. At present, the scam has evolved, whereby the scammer is now posing as both owner as well as a member of the Playa Linda staff, when the potential renter takes the next step to verify ownership.
It has recently come to light that “spoof” emails have mimicked email addresses of Reservations staff,
utilizing, for example, an employee’s name, but the email address contains a slight alteration as represented
below:
Spoof email address example: moniquehodge@playallinda.com
By doubling the “l” in the email, a scammer can redirect the verification request to an email they control.
These slight alterations are often difficult to notice, and, as a result, can be effective in a scam attempt to
steal funds from an unsuspecting, potential renter.
Our often sold-out status, and the promise of an attractive Playa Linda stay, has, unfortunately made
interested renters a target of these spoofing attempts.
When seeking to rent a week from an owner through a private transaction, please remain vigilant of these
types of scams. Or alternatively, to ensure the highest level of security, go directly through the Resort and
our Reservations Department, and take advantage of our Playa Linda Rental Pool. We welcome your
interest and are here to help facilitate a safe experience, from the reservations process through to a
memorable Playa Linda stay. For more information on how to book accommodations at Playa Linda, please
visit our main website: www.playalinda.com or email: reservations@playalinda.com.
Thank you.
Best regards,
Peter van Grinsven
General Manager