TL;DR: A rental scam is when a scammer advertises a property (often one they don't own or that doesn't exist) to collect a deposit from a victim who never gets to move in. Never send money for a rental before viewing it in person or via a verified video call, and try to verify the listed owner independently.
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A rental scam is when a scammer advertises a property (often one they don't own or that doesn't exist) to collect a deposit from a victim who never gets to move in.
How Rental Scams Works
The scammer copies photos and details from a real listing, posts it at an attractive price, and claims to be unavailable to show the property in person (often citing being "out of the country"), pressuring the victim to send a deposit to secure it sight unseen.
Warning Signs to Watch For
A price below market rate, a landlord who won't meet or video call, and pressure to send a deposit before viewing the property.
How to Protect Yourself
Never send money for a rental before viewing it in person or via a verified video call, and try to verify the listed owner independently.
If this looks similar to something else you've seen, it's worth reading What Is Session Hijacking? How It Works and How to Protect Yourself.
This pattern shows up elsewhere too — see What Is SIM Swapping? How It Works and How to Protect Yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rental Scams?
A rental scam is when a scammer advertises a property (often one they don't own or that doesn't exist) to collect a deposit from a victim who never gets to move in.
How does Rental Scams typically work?
The scammer copies photos and details from a real listing, posts it at an attractive price, and claims to be unavailable to show the property in person (often citing being "out of the country"), pressuring the victim to send a deposit to secure it sight unseen.
What are the warning signs of Rental Scams?
A price below market rate, a landlord who won't meet or video call, and pressure to send a deposit before viewing the property.
How can I protect myself from Rental Scams?
Never send money for a rental before viewing it in person or via a verified video call, and try to verify the listed owner independently.
What should I do if I think I’ve encountered Rental Scams?
Stop responding immediately, do not click any links or share information, and report it to the appropriate authority. If money or personal information was already shared, act quickly to secure your accounts and report the incident.