Rightmove is a trusted platform, but that trust is exactly what scammers try to exploit. Fake listings, phishing messages, and requests to move communication off-platform are the most common tactics used to target Rightmove users.
How Rightmove scams typically work
Scammers copy real listings from Rightmove, repost them at a lower price, and pose as a landlord who is unavailable to view the property in person, asking for a holding deposit upfront. The scammer creates urgency — a great deal that "won't last," or a role that needs to be filled "immediately" — to pressure you into skipping normal due diligence.
Red flags to watch for
Prices or offers that seem too good to be true, refusal to meet, video call, or verify identity, requests to pay or share information outside Rightmove's official messaging or payment systems, and urgency to act before you can verify anything independently.
How to protect yourself
Keep all communication within Rightmove's platform where possible, verify listings and contacts independently before sending any money or personal information, and never wire money or pay with gift cards or cryptocurrency to someone you haven't met or verified.
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are scams on Rightmove?
Rightmove has security measures in place, but scammers still post fake listings or send phishing messages to users, especially around high-demand properties or roles. Scammers copy real listings from Rightmove, repost them at a lower price, and pose as a landlord who is unavailable to view the property in person, asking for a holding deposit upfront.
What are the biggest red flags of a Rightmove scam?
A listing priced well below market rate, a "landlord" or "employer" who is unavailable to meet or call and always has an excuse, pressure to send money or personal information quickly, and any request to communicate or pay outside the platform.
What is this Rightmove scammer trying to get from me?
Scammers using Rightmove typically try to get you to transfer a holding deposit or advance rent before viewing the property or verifying the landlord. Once obtained, this is used for financial fraud or identity theft.
What should I do if I suspect a Rightmove listing is fake?
Do not send any money or personal information. Try to verify the listing independently — search the address or company name separately, and insist on communicating and meeting through verified channels only. Report the listing directly to Rightmove.
What should I do if I already sent money or information to a Rightmove scammer?
Contact your bank immediately to see if a payment can be reversed or flagged, report the incident to Rightmove and your national anti-fraud body, and keep all messages as evidence.