Looking to rent? Guelph Police warn of rental scam
CBC News | Posted: August 20, 2017 2:20 PM | Last Updated: August 21, 2017
Police said scammers portray themselves as property owners overseas and create fake online classified ads
Those looking to rent should be extra careful, said Guelph Police as they are warning people about a rental scam.
Police said scammers portray themselves as property owners working overseas and create fake online classified ads for rentals available at a lower price in preferred locations.
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Scammers will then ask people interested questions about their banking information.
Once an agreement is made, individuals are instructed to send first and last months' rent via email transfer or bank wire. Keys are then said to be sent by mail to the individual's address.
Police said the scammers may also ask for additional funds for security deposits.
However, police said that keys are never sent and the properties advertised are not available for rent.
"Victims eventually become aware of the scam and the fraudulent ads are deleted along with all communication with the suspect," said a release from Guelph Police.
How to Protect Yourself
Police said the best way to protect yourself is to double check that the are no duplicates of the add, schedule a showing of the rental, physically attend the address and confirm that it is available.
Police also advise to review the lease or contract thoroughly.