The Richmond RCMP is warning people looking for a new apartment about a spike in reported rental deposit scams.
In recent weeks, Mounties say they’ve heard of at least five cases in which people have been taken advantage of after responding to online ads.
They say a fake landlord will ask for a deposit to secure the rental and, soon after the funds are sent electronically, the victims discover they’ve been scammed.
“Scammers often prey on people’s emotions to create a sense of urgency. The public is reminded to exercise caution and verify ownership before paying damage or rental deposits,” said Cpl. Denise Kam.
Police are offering some suggestions to avoid becoming a victim, including verifying the listing on multiple rental platforms, reverse-image searching the images in the listing to see if they have been reused, confirming ownership or management, and never sending money without first seeing the property in person.
If you suspect you have been a victim of fraud, the Richmond RCMP says you should report it immediately to your local police.