Safety & Trust Center

Stay Safe. Book Smart.

ShortRest connects you directly with property and vehicle owners — zero commission, zero middlemen. Your safety is your responsibility. These guidelines help you make informed decisions on every booking.

The Basics

Six Golden Rules of Safe Booking

Follow these non-negotiable principles every time you book a hotel, shortlet, or rental car on ShortRest.

Always View First

Never pay full amount without viewing the property in person or via a verified live video call from the actual location.

Verify Everything

Research the property, check owner identity, verify the address exists on Google Maps before committing.

Traceable Payments Only

Use bank transfers with descriptions, always get receipts, and avoid large cash-only payments with no paper trail.

Get It in Writing

Save all messages, WhatsApp chats, and agreements. Get written confirmation of terms and keep payment receipts.

Trust Your Instincts

If something feels wrong or too good to be true — prices far below market, pressure to pay fast — walk away immediately.

Report Suspicious Activity

Help protect the community by reporting scams, fake listings, and suspicious behavior to ShortRest immediately.

For Travelers & Guests

Step-by-Step Safety Checklist

From first contact with an owner to the moment you check in — follow these steps to protect yourself at every stage.

Before Booking
Research, Verify, Ask Questions
Research the Property

Google the name and address. Check Street View. Search for the property on other platforms and look for reviews. Reverse image-search the photos to detect stolen images.

Verify the Owner's Identity

Ask for government-issued ID. Request property ownership documents. Check if their phone number appears on legitimate platforms.

Request a Live Video Tour

Ask for a live WhatsApp video call from inside the property — not a pre-recorded video. This confirms the owner actually has access to the space.

Clarify All Terms in Writing

Confirm check-in/out times, what's included, cancellation policy, and any extra fees. No verbal agreements — get everything in a WhatsApp message or document.

During & After Booking
Pay Smart. Inspect Thoroughly.
Never Pay Full Amount Upfront

A reasonable deposit only after verification. Visit in person before paying whenever possible. Bring a friend when viewing properties.

Use Traceable Bank Transfers

Include the property address in your transfer description. Save every payment receipt. Avoid cash-only arrangements with no documentation.

Inspect on Arrival

Take photos and videos of the property's condition immediately on check-in. Test all amenities — water, electricity, WiFi, AC. Note any damages right away.

Know Your Emergency Exits

Locate emergency exits and safety features on arrival. Keep the owner's contact number accessible. Know the property address for emergencies.

Warning Signs

Red Flags to Watch For

If you notice ANY of these signs, slow down — or walk away entirely. Legitimate owners never pressure you.

Suspicious Behaviour
Owner refuses video calls or in-person viewings
Pressure to pay immediately or full amount upfront
Won't provide ID or property ownership documents
Avoids answering specific questions about the property
Insists on untraceable payment methods only (e.g. cash to unknown third party)
Changes terms or price after you've shown serious interest
Listing Red Flags
Price significantly lower than all similar nearby properties
Poor quality, obviously stock, or stolen photos (reverse image search them)
Photos don't visually match the stated location or LGA
Vague or copy-pasted property description with no specific details
Same listing appearing under multiple names or phone numbers
No verifiable address — only a general area or neighbourhood

Common Scam Types to Know

Fake Listings Property doesn't exist or owner has no rights to it
Bait-and-Switch Different property shown in person than online
Advance Fee Fraud "Booking fee" or "inspection fee" demanded upfront
Identity Impersonation Scammer posing as a legitimate property owner
Double Booking Same property listed simultaneously by multiple "owners"
Overpayment Scam Sent excess funds, asked to refund difference
For Property & Vehicle Owners

Protect Yourself and Build Guest Trust

As an owner on ShortRest, your safety matters too. Follow these practices to screen guests and protect your property.

Protect Yourself

Screen guests, collect deposits, document everything
Screen guests — always ask for ID and verify identity before check-in
Collect security deposits to protect against property damage
Use written rental agreements outlining all terms, rules, and payment conditions
Inspect and photograph the property before and after every guest
Keep records of all guest communications, IDs, and payment receipts
Set clear house rules on noise, extra guests, smoking, and check-out time

Build Trust with Guests

Honesty and responsiveness drive repeat bookings
Use real, high-quality photos of your actual property — honesty builds repeat business
Write accurate descriptions — include every relevant amenity, size, and limitation
Respond promptly to all enquiries — slow responses lose bookings
Offer live video tours via WhatsApp for serious enquiries from remote travelers
Be transparent about fees — state everything upfront: caution, utilities, service charges
Maintain professional communication in all guest interactions, at all times
Report Bad Actors

Help Protect the ShortRest Community

Reporting scams and fraudulent listings protects thousands of other users. Take a minute — it matters.

What to Report
  • Fake or fraudulent property listings
  • Scam attempts or unusual payment requests
  • Impersonation of legitimate owners
  • Stolen photos or misleading listing content
  • Harassment or threatening communication
  • Illegal activities linked to a listing
How to Report

Email our trust team with as much detail as possible. Include screenshots, listing links, chat logs, and any payment receipts.

support@shortrest.com.ng
+234-817-702-3324

Include: listing URL, screenshots, description of incident, and supporting evidence.

Emergency Resources

If You've Been Scammed or Are in Danger

Contact the relevant authority immediately. Keep all evidence — messages, receipts, screenshots — for your report.

Nigerian Police

Report fraud and criminal activity to your nearest police station.

112 / 911

EFCC

Economic & Financial Crimes Commission — report financial fraud and online scams.

efccnigeria.org

ShortRest Support

Report scams directly to us. We investigate and take action to protect the community.

support@shortrest.com.ng

Stay Safe. Book with Confidence.

Your safety is in your hands. Always verify, always question, and never rush into payments. When in doubt, walk away — there will always be another listing. ShortRest is here to help you find the right one safely.

Browse Listings Safely