Rental fraud is on the rise in the UK, with scammers exploiting desperate tenants on popular platforms like Facebook and Gumtree. Posing as legitimate landlords, these fraudsters trick victims into paying deposits for properties that either don’t exist or aren’t available to rent.
How the Scam Works
Fraudsters create convincing listings for rental properties, often using stolen photos and fake details. They pressure tenants to pay a deposit upfront, sometimes even offering virtual viewings to appear genuine. Once the money is transferred, the 'landlord' disappears, leaving the tenant with no keys and no way to recover their cash.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Too-good-to-be-true prices: If the rent seems unusually low for the area, it’s likely a scam.
- Pressure to pay quickly: Scammers often claim multiple people are interested to rush victims into paying.
- Refusal of in-person viewings: Be wary if the landlord insists on remote viewings only.
- Unverified profiles: Fake landlords often have minimal online presence or recently created accounts.
How to Protect Yourself
Always verify the landlord’s identity and check property details with official sources. Use trusted rental platforms with fraud protection, and never transfer money without signing a contract. If you suspect fraud, report it to Action Fraud immediately.
With rental demand at an all-time high, tenants must stay vigilant to avoid falling victim to these heartless scams.
