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RENTAL SCAMS


                Be aware Rental Scams on Social media Sites 

 

To avoid rental scams, watch out for these common warning signs: 

 

  • Low rent: If the rent is significantly lower than other properties in the area, be cautious. 
  • Upfront Payments: Be wary of landlords who ask for money upfront before seeing the property, especially if they request payment via a bank transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift cards. 
  • No In-Person Meetings: Criminals often avoid face-to-face meetings.  If the "landlord" is unable or unwilling to meet you in person or show you the property, this is a warning sign. 
  • warning consumers of the dangers of rental scams. Action Fraud reports the average rental scam victim in the UK loses £1,400. 
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    To avoid rental scams, watch out for these common warning signs: 

     

  • High-Pressure Tactics: Criminals may pressure you to act quickly, claiming there are other interested people or that the offer is available for a limited time only. 
  • Incomplete or Vague Information: Legitimate listings provide detailed information. Be suspicious of ads with limited photos, vague descriptions, or typos and errors. If it’s an agent, they must belong to a redress scheme. 
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    Don’t get scammed! Rental scams are on the rise. 

     

  • Watch out for red flags like too- high-pressure tactics. 
  • Always meet the landlord or agent in person and verify the property details. 
  • Stay smart and rent safely. 
  • #RentalScams#MeetTheLandlord.
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    Message Sent By
    Justine Hester
    (Police, Neighbourhood Administrator, Reading)

    Neighbourhood Alert Cyber Essentials