In a recent whistleblower complaint, a former contractor has raised concerns about Airbnb's alleged reduction to remove extremists from its platform, potentially compromising user safety.

Airbnb Accused of Wrongful Termination Over Extremist User Handling

Jess Hernandez was employed as an inquiries analyst for Airbnb's dangerous organizations team from May 2022 to November 2023.

According to CNN, During this time, their role involved conducting research on extremist networks as part of the company's efforts to ensure the safety of its platform by preventing the presence of dangerous individuals. 

However, she claims that her employment was terminated in November 2023, shortly after her team received instructions from management to restore access to users who had been previously removed due to their involvement in the events of January 6, 2021, at the US Capitol.

Hernandez submitted the whistleblower disclosure in May to the US Securities and Exchange Commission and Federal Trade Commission. The complaint was initially brought to light on Wednesday (June 19).

Airbnb challenged Hernandez's assertions, stating that it remains committed to taking action against individuals affiliated with dangerous or extremist groups.

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Airbnb Faces Scrutiny Over Handling of Dangerous Groups

According to Hernandez, the team's typical procedure for removing accounts linked to dangerous groups became more complicated under the overhaul. 

The team's authority to remove accounts had been revoked; intelligence could only be acted upon after it had undergone review and approval by multiple departmental leaders, including those in legal, communications, and community policy. 

Based on Hernandez's recollection, the change caused a significant slowdown in removals, almost coming to a halt.

According to NBC News, Hernandez's complaint lacked the necessary documentation to demonstrate any shifts in the rate of removals or the specific groups being targeted for removal. 

The spokesperson for Airbnb declined to provide further information in response to inquiries regarding the allegations.However, she did mention that the Dangerous Organizations policy is still in place and being enforced.

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