LA Sues Airbnb Over Price Gouging and Unverified Listings After Wildfires

The Los Angeles city attorney's office filed a lawsuit against Airbnb, alleging price gouging and unverified hosts and addresses at over 2,000 rentals following January's wildfires. The lawsuit seeks to prevent price hikes during the emergency and compensate affected consumers. Airbnb disputes the claims, highlighting its $30 million in aid to fire victims. However, the lawsuit also alleges inadequate verification processes, leaving users vulnerable to crime. The case involves fake hosts and addresses, and locations miles from advertised ones. If price gouging is proven, Airbnb faces up to $7.5 million in fines.