When we think of Airbnb, we usually imagine weekend getaways, vacations, or short work trips. But sometimes, these rentals are used for purposes far beyond tourism.
A recent viral story shared on TikTok shows just how surprising this can get. One Airbnb host discovered that her home had been secretly used for cryptocurrency mining—leaving her with a shocking electricity bill of about $1,500.
How the Host Discovered the Crypto Mining Setup
The host did not have cameras inside the property (which would raise privacy concerns), but she did have outdoor surveillance. This footage revealed the renters packing up ten powerful computers when they checked out. Those machines weren’t for gaming or work—they were mining cryptocurrency around the clock.
Within just a few days, the massive power use drove the electricity bill to nearly $1,500—an expense the homeowner had never expected.
Running 10 Gaming PCs vs. Mining Rigs
To put things into perspective:
Ten gaming PCs, each drawing about 600 watts, running 10 hours a day for three weeks would normally cost around $250 in the U.S.
In Europe, where electricity is pricier, the same usage could cost about €500 in Germany.
Mining rigs, however, consume much more electricity than gaming setups, which explains why the bill ballooned to $1,500.
Extra Costs From EV Charging
The host also noted that the renters used her personal electric vehicle (EV) charging station without permission. This added even more to the already inflated bill.
Complaint and Resolution
Unwilling to accept the extra charges, the homeowner filed a formal complaint. Authorities eventually held the tenants responsible, requiring them to cover the electricity costs.
To prevent this from happening again, the host introduced new house rules that strictly ban cryptocurrency mining and the use of her EV charging station.
This unusual Airbnb case highlights the risks that come with renting out properties, especially when guests use them for activities far beyond their intended purpose.
While most stays are normal, this incident serves as a reminder for hosts to set clear rules and protections in place. For renters, it’s also a warning—unauthorized use of someone’s property can lead not only to massive bills but also to serious consequences.
