Police Advisory On Online Rental Scam

The police are urging the public to exercise caution when searching for rental properties online following a suspected rental scam in which someone was asked for an “upfront payment before being permitted to view the property.”

A police spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Police Service is advising members of the public to exercise caution when searching for Bermuda rental accommodations online, following a report of a suspected rental scam.

“It was reported that an individual responded to an online advertisement for a Bermuda rental property and was instructed to provide government-issued identification, proof of income, and an upfront payment before being permitted to view the property. The requested payments included a deposit and a viewing/processing fee, to be sent via electronic payment services.

“The prospective tenant became suspicious of these requests, and no financial loss was incurred.

“Members of the public are reminded to:

• “Be cautious of rental listings that require payment before you have viewed the property.

• “Never send deposits, application fees, or processing fees to secure a viewing without first verifying that the property and landlord are legitimate.

• “Verify the identity of the landlord or property manager through reputable sources.

• “Be wary of requests to send money via wire transfer or electronic payment platforms, particularly where there is pressure to act quickly.

• “If an offer appears too good to be true, it may be a scam.

“Anyone who believes they have been targeted by a rental scam or has made a payment to a suspected fraudster, is encouraged to report the matter to the Bermuda Police Service at the earliest opportunity.

“The Bermuda Police Service continues to encourage the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to help prevent others from becoming victims this or any other type of fraud.”

#BermudaRealEstate #Scams

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