Renters are being warned about a growing rental fraud in which scammers demand upfront fees for properties that either don’t exist or have already been let. West Mercia Police have highlighted that this deception is particularly common among new and returning university students urgently seeking accommodation.
The force’s economic crime unit explained, “Rental fraud occurs when prospective tenants are tricked into paying fees to rent a property that either does not exist, has already been leased, or has been rented out simultaneously to multiple victims.” This scam not only causes financial loss but also leaves victims without the housing they believed was secured.
In many cases, the scammers exploit popular online rental platforms by posting fake listings or falsely advertising real properties that have already been rented. Students, vulnerable due to time pressures and limited housing options, often fall prey to these tactics.
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West Mercia Police urge renters to verify the authenticity of landlords or agents before transferring any funds. “Do not send money to anyone advertising a rental property online until you are certain the advertiser is genuine,” they advise.
Additionally, the force warns of related scams targeting students, such as fraudulent HMRC tax refund schemes. “HMRC will only contact customers due a tax refund through official postal mail and will never call, email, or use third parties for these matters,” West Mercia Police said. People receiving suspicious emails claiming to be from HMRC should forward them to [email protected] and delete them immediately.
By staying vigilant, renters can protect themselves from significant financial loss and the distress of being left without a home.