Two cousins caught in outrageous $9M Airbnb scam where they destroyed 10,000 vacations
Two cousins have been accused of running an $8.5 million vacation rental fraud scheme that allegedly cheated customers through double-bookings and bait-and-switch tactics.
Shray Goel, 36, and Shaunik Raheja, 37, are said to have operated the scheme between 2013 and 2019, using false identities and targeting mostly Black customers.
According to federal investigators, the pair listed the same rental properties across multiple platforms, including Airbnb and Vrbo. They would then cancel bookings at the last minute, often claiming maintenance problems, while keeping higher-paying reservations for themselves.
A federal investigation led to charges, and both men later pleaded guilty this year to wire fraud and obstruction of justice. Prosecutors say they admitted to overbooking properties and sending false cancellation explanations after securing more profitable bookings. Raheja also admitted to lying to federal agents during the 2023 investigation.
Airbnb said it cooperated with investigators and supported efforts by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI. The company said it has strengthened its systems to help prevent similar fraud.
The defendants did not admit to additional allegations, including claims of racial discrimination or the full $8.5 million scope of the scheme.
Both men are awaiting sentencing hearings scheduled for late summer 2026. Goel faces up to 20 years in federal prison, while Raheja faces up to 10 years.
About Post Author
