Skip to main content

Canned spam: New Padmapper algorithm takes aim at scams and fishy listings

Padmapper, a platform that allows users to search for homes and apartment rentals, launched a brand new smartphone application today dubbed Post a Pad. With the app, the company lets anyone post rentable rooms or apartments straight from an Android or iOS-capable device. Furthermore, with PadMapper’s collaboration with Zumper in 2016 — a separate platform offering rentals — users of Post a Pad grants access to both rental marketplaces.

Along with its Post a Pad app, Padmapper also announced an upgrade of its security system to protect its users. It created an algorithm which makes finding a rental more safe and secure. According to a companion press release, the latest launch not only aligns with the company’s desire of offering a high-quality customer experience but it ensures these experiences remain safe and secure.

Recommended Videos

“Unlike other platforms specializing in this type, PadMapper has created a proprietary security algorithm to combat against spammy listings and scams from entering the platform, which will launch alongside Post a Pad,” read the release. “The algorithm uses a combination of machine learning and community moderation to ensure only high-quality, legitimate listings are posted.”

To post on Post a Pad, a user downloads the Android or iOS app and taps the post tab. Next, users simply drag a map pin or enter in an address to indicate location — or, the option to hide a location also appears. The user adds images and relevant details to their listing such as, whether the listing concerns a room or a whole house, the square footage, and any additional features. After finishing a listing — takes just a few minutes —  users get verified through login and through the app’s security algorithm. If approved, the listing goes live to millions of people on the Zumper and Padmapper marketplaces. However, the app also provides the option to only share a listing with those provided a direct link.

Erika Rawes
Smart Home Evergreen Coordinator
Erika became a professional writer in 2010, and her work is published all over the web on sites ranging from USA Today to…
Ultraloq showcases the first-ever ultra-wideband smart lock at CES 2025
Bolt Mission UWB + NFC installed on a white door.

Ultraloq showed off two smart locks at CES 2025 -- one of which is the first smart lock to ever offer ultra-wideband (UWB) support. The Ultraloq Bolt Mission UWB + NFC uses UWB technology to unlock automatically as you approach your front door. Similar functionality already exists on other smart locks, but UWB should allow the Ultraloq Bolt Mission to be more accurate than the competition.

The Bolt Mission uses technology similar to digital car keys, and Ultraloq says it can track the keyholder’s phone location with “centimeter-level” accuracy. As your phone gets closer to the front door, the Bolt Mission can be programmed to automatically unlock, giving you a hands-free way to get inside. Better yet, because the smart lock can detect both your distance and direction from the front door, it should prevent you from accidentally unlocking the smart lock while inside your home.

Read more
Ulticam shows off three AI-powered security cameras at CES 2025
The Ulticam IQ installed outside a home.

Ulticam, the new security camera brand of Xthings, revealed a lineup of three AI-powered cameras at CES 2025. The Ulticam IQ, Ulticam IQ Floodlight, and Ulticam Dot offer not just cool AI capabilities, but also free seven-day cloud storage -- which could make them a solid choice for value-minded shoppers leery about signing up for monthly storage plans.

The Ulticam IQ and IQ Floodlight are the main attractions, as they're packed with features that should pose solid competition for the best smart security cameras from Arlo, Nest, and Ring. The duo uses edge AI to quickly identify people, vehicles, and packages without needing to upload the video for server-side processing. This onboard processing should result in faster performance -- it’s also great for privacy and security, as your footage doesn’t have to leave your device.

Read more
Home Depot expands Hubspace smart home lineup at CES 2025
The Home Depot Hubspace logo on a white background.

Hubspace, Home Depot’s smart home platform, has seen impressive growth over the past few years, and that growth continued at CES 2025. Three new gadgets were revealed at the event, including a wireless power switch to control Hubspace products, a portable air conditioner, and a window-mounted air conditioner. All three are unique additions to the catalog -- and since there’s not much like them on the market, they should quickly become popular options in their respective niches.

The Hubspace Remote Switch is arguably the most useful of the three gadgets. Designed to look like a light switch, but with a removable remote controller, it works with select Hubspace light bulbs, fixtures, plugs, power sockets, surge protectors, and more. You’ll get standard on and off functions, plus access to brightness controls. Its sleek looks and versatility should make it a great choice for shoppers seeking an entry-level smart switch.

Read more