The Collingwood and Blue Mountains OPP have released some safety tips to avoid getting scammed while renting an apartment or house online.
They say officers have been called to a couple of incidents in the last month of fraud related to rentals listed online.
In one case, a homeowner had someone knock on the door to view an apartment listed online, which did not exist and both the email and phone number tied the ad were no longer in service.
- They want you to give a deposit or pay in full quickly giving you all kinds of excuses to instill a sense of urgency to send them money.
- They cannot meet you in person and the viewing of the property will be taking place as a ‘walking tour’ outside the residence, never once gaining access to the house.
- If possible, try to deal with a local reputable rental businesses which you can find via your social circle or online search with associated reviews.
- If the price is too good to be true…..it probably is.
Following the above tips will certainly go a long way in preventing victimization. For more anti-fraud tips visit www.opp.ca or click here.