A rental scam involving classified ads or trusted vacation websites that target long and short term rental availabilities is active right now. Platforms like Kijiji, Craig’s List, and Facebook Marketplace, are among the sites that can be exploited.
OPP Constable Karen German explains how the long term rental swindle works.
German says the applicant is asked to send a deposit either through a money service .. e-transfer or bank wire, with the assurance keys will be sent.
Next – first and last months’ rent are requested and maybe money for other various reasons. The applicant is assured of a full refund if not satisfied. German says once the money is received the ads are deleted – the fraudster vanishes – keys are not sent and the rental does not exist.
Police says post secondary students attending college or university away from home – should be extra cautious when looking for a place to live.
