Image Credit: ADOBE STOCK
July 24, 2019 - 11:24 AM
KAMLOOPS - Kamloops RCMP are warning those looking for property rentals to be vigilant and to ensure they are not falling victim to an online scam.
As new Thompson Rivers University students begin to move to the river city for upcoming courses, RCMP are reminding potential renters to be wary of online scams. Police say many new students use online resources to find a place to live and may fall victim to a scammer if they are not careful.
There are two types of common scams that police warn about, according to an RCMP media release.
One is a phantom rental, where the property listed does not exist. The person advertising the rental will often say they are out of the country for missionary work or due to family illness or death, and they are unable to show the property.
RCMP say these scammers will often ask for payment upfront, asking renters for a security deposit or the first and last month's rent.
Another common scam is one where the person who posted the listing has no actual connection to the property.
RCMP warn potential renters to confirm the validity of the location and the person landlord and advise asking for references from previous renters.
They also recommend asking for photo verification of the person renting the property, which could be used by the RCMP if they need to do an investigation.
Lastly, RCMP reminds people to always visit the property first before any exchange of money occurs.
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