Fake Listings (Phantom Rentals)
Scammers post ads for properties that don’t exist or that they don’t own, often using stolen photos and descriptions from legitimate listings. They lure victims with below-market prices and pressure them to send deposits or rent upfront—usually via untraceable methods like wire transfers or cryptocurrency—before disappearing.
Hijacked Listings
Fraudsters copy real rental ads from legitimate sites, then repost them with their own contact info and slightly lower prices. When potential renters reach out, the scammer collects payments or personal information, leaving the victim with no property and the real landlord unaware.
Deposit or Application Fee Scams
Scammers ask for upfront payments—like security deposits, first month’s rent, or application fees—before the renter can see the property. They often claim it’s to "secure the place" due to high demand, then vanish after receiving the money.
Identity Theft via Rental Applications
Posing as landlords, scammers request detailed personal information (e.g., Social Security numbers, bank details) through fake rental applications. Instead of renting a property, they use the data for identity theft or financial fraud.
Bait-and-Switch Properties
A scammer advertises an attractive rental at a great price, but when the renter arrives, they’re told it’s "no longer available" and offered a less desirable (or nonexistent) alternative. Payments are collected, and the scammer disappears.
Fake Landlord or Property Manager
Someone pretends to be the property owner or manager, shows the rental (sometimes by breaking in or using a short-term rental), and collects money from the tenant. The real owner eventually shows up, leaving the renter scammed.
Too-Good-to-Be-True Deals
Listings with unrealistically low prices for high-demand areas are a red flag. Scammers use these to hook victims quickly, often pushing for immediate payment with excuses like "other interested renters" or "limited time offers."
No-Show Tours or Virtual-Only Scams
Scammers avoid in-person tours, claiming they’re out of town or offering virtual tours with pre-recorded videos. They collect payments remotely and never provide access to the property.
How to Spot and Avoid Them
Verify the Listing: Cross-check the property on multiple platforms and use tools like Google Street View to confirm it exists.
Meet in Person: Insist on seeing the property and meeting the landlord or agent before paying anything.
Payment Red Flags: Be wary of requests for wire transfers, gift cards, or cash apps—legitimate landlords typically accept traceable payments like checks or credit cards.
Research the Landlord: Ask for proof of ownership (e.g., a tax record) and search their name or company online.
Trust Your Gut: If the deal feels rushed or too good to be true, it probably is.
