AN online rental scam has been gaining traction.
Scammers have been posting photos of houses online then collecting rental money from them upfront before disappearing.
Victoria Police have put out a statement warning people to be wary of the ploy. “The scammers post a picture of a house for rent and then ask for money upfront and in some circumstances send a fake rental agreement through,” the statement read.
“Do not fall for this scam. Only rent through reputable companies and do not hand over any money sight unseen. If a rental is on offer and they will not allow you to inspect the property, it is a scam. In saying that, it appears that this also goes for any item that can be sold on social media. Again if you have not seen the item, do not send any money.”
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 27 April 2022
