TL;DR: This pattern peaks around common lease-end dates, often the end of spring or summer, when a large share of renters are searching for a new place on a fixed deadline. Never send a deposit before viewing a unit in person or via a live video call with the actual property, and verify the listing against the property management company directly.
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This pattern peaks around common lease-end dates, often the end of spring or summer, when a large share of renters are searching for a new place on a fixed deadline.
How the Scam Plays Out
Scammers list apartments that don't exist or that belong to someone else, using photos taken from legitimate listings and pressuring applicants to send a deposit before viewing the unit to 'secure' it against other renters.
How to Protect Yourself
Never send a deposit before viewing a unit in person or via a live video call with the actual property, and verify the listing against the property management company directly.
If this looks similar to something else you've seen, it's worth reading End-of-Year Charity Donation Scams.
This pattern shows up elsewhere too — see Flu and Cold Season Fake Pharmacy Scams.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does this typically happen?
This pattern peaks around common lease-end dates, often the end of spring or summer, when a large share of renters are searching for a new place on a fixed deadline.
What tactics are used?
Scammers list apartments that don't exist or that belong to someone else, using photos taken from legitimate listings and pressuring applicants to send a deposit before viewing the unit to 'secure' it against other renters.
How can I protect myself?
Never send a deposit before viewing a unit in person or via a live video call with the actual property, and verify the listing against the property management company directly.
What should I do if I’ve already been targeted?
Stop all payments immediately, contact your bank or card issuer to see if a transaction can be reversed or flagged, and report the incident to the appropriate consumer protection body.