A fake rental scam has resurfaced as prospective renters are targeted with fraudulently modified rental listings on social networking sites.
Reports indicate that scammers copy genuine listings and share them with altered rents, tenancy conditions, and contact details to appear legitimate.
Renters seeking properties on social networking sites are urged to check before you engage.
Before transferring any money for the bond, first month’s rent, or any personal or sensitive information, renters are urged to verify the agent’s website, office location, and contact details.
Refer to established sources such as: ·
- REIV – Find & Choose a Member
- Business Licensing Authority (BLA)/Consumer Affairs Victoria(CAV) – Public Register
- Realestate.com.au –
- Domain
- View
- The listing agency’s website
REIV CEO Kelly Ryan said, “scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and it is important that we all take the necessary precautions before we engage. One of the ways to verify a legitimate listing is to look for an agency-specific internet domain, as scammers tend to use personal emails. It is good practice to seek out the agent’s contact details directly from their website or by calling the registered office. If in doubt, REIV members and their contact details are listed on reiv.com.au.”
