How some Metro Vancouver renters are being targeted in deposit scams
Richmond RCMP is warning renters to watch out for Metro Vancouver rental scams that have caused renters to lose thousands of dollars this summer.
They are seeing a spike in rental scams this summer, with at least five people losing between $400 and $2,600 since July, according to a press release.
Police say the victims often responded to fake rental ads posted on social media.
In each case, the would-be renter found a listing online and was asked to send money by e-transfer to secure the unit.
After paying up, they quickly learned the home wasn’t actually available for rent.
“It’s no secret the rental market is tough right now, especially this time of year,” said Corporal Denise Kam with Richmond RCMP’s Economic Crime Unit.
“Scammers often prey on people’s emotions to create a sense of urgency. We want to remind everyone to slow down and double-check before handing over money.”
Police say a few red flags can help renters avoid falling into the trap. If a listing looks too good to be true, it probably is.
They recommend cross-checking listings on more than one site, running a reverse image search on photos to see if they’ve been lifted from another ad, and confirming the landlord actually owns or manages the property.
And no matter how competitive the market feels, they stress you should never send money before seeing a place in person.
Anyone who thinks they’ve been caught in one of the Metro Vancouver rental scams is urged to contact their local police right away.
Richmond RCMP can be reached at 604-207-5189 or online at richmond.rcmp.ca.
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