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The RCIPS is warning the public against a concerning series of fraudulent rental property schemes currently targeting prospective tenants.
We have received numerous reports of scammers posing as landlords or property managers offering apartments or houses for rent at attractive prices. Victims are often asked to transfer a security deposit or advance rent before viewing the property, only to discover later that the property is not available, does not exist, or is already legitimately rented out.
Method Being Used:
1. Fake online listings sometimes with photos copied from legitimate advertisements.
2. Platforms such as Facebook and particularly ecayTrade are often used.
3. Scammers communicating only through messaging apps or email, avoiding personal meetings, and giving excuses. For example a sick relative or having to urgently leave the Island.
4. Victims pressured to pay deposits quickly to “reserve” the unit – often citing other interested parties.
5. Requests for payment through untraceable channels such as money transfer services, prepaid cards, or wire transfers. Be particularly careful of requests to transfer funds outside the jurisdiction.
Safety Tips for the Public:
1. Verify Ownership – Ask for proof of property ownership or authorisation to rent before paying.
2. Inspect the Property – Never send money without physically viewing the property.
3. Avoid Untraceable Payments – Always use secure and verifiable payment methods.
4. Be Skeptical of “Too Good to be True” Offers – Extremely low rent is a common red flag.
5. Report Suspicious Activity – Contact your local police station if you encounter suspicious listings or individuals.
6. Fake Identification and Cloned Telephone numbers – An ID & or telephone number appearing to be local should never be accepted as authentic without verification – remember the possibility of deep fakes and cloned numbers.
7. Contact Your Bank Immediately - if you realize that payment from or through the bank resulted from a scam.
The RCIPS urges everyone to exercise caution when searching for rental properties. Public vigilance and timely reporting can prevent further victimisation.
For assistance or to report a suspected rental scam, please contact the Police at 949-4222.
