Real estate or rental scams involve fraudulent activities aimed at deceiving people looking for property rentals or purchases. Scammers use various tactics to gain access to personal information, money, or property without providing any legitimate services. Here are some common real estate or rental scams to be aware of:
- Fake Listings: Scammers create fake listings on popular rental or real estate websites to attract potential victims. They use attractive images and descriptions of the property to entice people to contact them. Once they have the victim’s attention, they demand a deposit or advance payment before the viewing or lease signing. However, after the payment is made, the victim never hears from the scammer again and the post usually disappears.
- Phishing Scams: Scammers use phishing scams to trick people into giving out their personal information or money. They send emails, text messages, or make calls impersonating real estate agents or landlords. They ask for sensitive information, such as bank account or social security numbers, and threaten legal action or eviction if the victim doesn’t comply.
- Identity Theft: Scammers use stolen identities to create fake landlords or property owners. They advertise properties that do not exist or are not theirs and ask for deposits or rent payments. Victims realize the scam when they arrive at the property to find someone else living there.
- Overpayment Scams: Scammers send fraudulent checks or money orders for more than the rental or purchase amount and ask the victim to deposit it and send back the extra amount. The victim sends the money, but the check bounces, and the victim is left with no money and no property.
To avoid real estate or rental scams, it is recommended to verify the legitimacy of the property and the landlord or agent. Do not provide personal information or money until you have seen the property and verified the owner’s identity. Use reputable rental or real estate websites and always read reviews and feedback from previous tenants or buyers.