Ahead of the inauguration of new USJoe Biden on January 20, Airbnb is taking steps to prevent so-called US hate groups, such as the Proud Boys, from gathering in Washington and causing riots that day. The online platform has prepared a plan called “Capitol Safety.
Airbnb announced on January 11 that it is deleting the accounts of those named not only by law enforcement but also by the media as being involved in the Capitol attack . In addition, those who visit the US capital, stay in a property rented through the company, and are members of hate groups or plan violence during Biden's inauguration may face legal consequences from Airbnb.
This is yet another of the leading technology companies that decide to take a stand and oppose the effort to create unrest at the expense of democratic processes in Washington.
Specifically, the company noted in its statement: “When we learn from media or law enforcement sources the names of individuals confirmed to be responsible for violent criminal activity at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, we investigate whether these individuals have an Airbnb account. This includes cross-referencing records . If individuals have an Airbnb account, we take action, which includes banning them from using the platform.”
Additionally, Airbnb is reviewing reservations made in the DC area. If someone affiliated with a hate group makes a reservation, the company will cancel that reservation and block the person who made it. You can see a full list of actions Airbnb is taking on its official site.
Airbnb isn’t the only company making travel to Washington more difficult for Biden’s inauguration day. Trump had used GoFundMe to raise money to pay for trips to the U.S. capital for the Jan. 6 attacks. Now, the platform is removing travel fundraisers to discourage trips aimed at inciting violence.
A GoFundMe spokesperson told BuzzFeed News: “Due to the violence, GoFundMe has removed multiple fundraisers intended to raise money for travel expenses. GoFundMe will remove fundraisers for travel expenses at a future political event where there is a risk of violence from attendees.”
