Common Rent Fraud and Scams

Our firm has seen a number of common scams and frauds that target individuals looking for rental properties. These scams can cause significant financial harm and emotional stress, and it is important for renters to be aware of them and to know their rights.

One of the most common scams is the fake rental listing scam. In this scam, a fraudulent landlord will advertise a rental property online, typically at a very low price, and then ask for a deposit or rent payment in advance. Once the payment has been made, the scammer will disappear, leaving the renter without a home or their money.

How some fraudsters pose as landlords

Another common scam is the rental property identity theft scam. In this scam, a fraudster will steal the identity of a legitimate landlord and use it to advertise a rental property online. They will then ask for a deposit or rent payment in advance and use the renter's financial information to steal their money.

Rental property identity theft is a scam that involves fraudsters who steal the identity of a legitimate landlord or property management company. They then use this stolen identity to advertise rental properties online, typically at a low price, and collect deposits or rent payments in advance from unsuspecting renters.

In this scam, the fraudster will create fake rental listings on websites such as Craigslist or Zillow, using stolen photos and descriptions of real properties. They may also create fake email addresses and phone numbers to communicate with potential renters.

Once they have attracted a victim, the fraudster will ask for a deposit or rent payment in advance, often via wire transfer or prepaid debit card. After the payment has been made, the fraudster will disappear, leaving the renter without a home or their money. In some cases, the fraudster may also use the renter's financial information to steal their identity or commit other crimes.

Rental property identity theft scams can cause significant financial harm and emotional stress for renters. In addition to losing money, renters may also have difficulty finding a new rental property, as the scam can damage their credit and reputation.

It is important for renters to be aware of rental property identity theft scams and to know how to protect themselves. Renters should be cautious of rental listings that seem too good to be true, such as properties advertised at significantly lower prices than comparable properties in the area. They should also be wary of landlords or property managers who ask for rent or deposit payments in advance, especially if they are unable to show the property in person or provide a legitimate lease agreement.

Renters can protect themselves by verifying the identity of the landlord or property manager before making any payments. This can be done by checking the property owner's information through public records or by contacting the real estate company or local property management office to verify the legitimacy of the listing. Renters can also use secure payment methods, such as personal checks or credit card payments, to reduce the risk of fraud.



Other forms of rent frauds

Renters can also be targeted by fraudsters who pose as property management companies and ask for an upfront fee for credit checks, background checks, or other services. These fees can be substantial, and renters may never hear from the fraudster again once they have received the payment.

In some cases, renters may also be targeted by unscrupulous landlords who engage in illegal practices such as rent gouging, retaliation, or harassment. Renters have rights under the law, and it is important for them to understand these rights and to know how to protect themselves.

Get a former US Attorney on your side

Our Charleston criminal defense law firm can help renters who have been the victims of these scams and frauds. We can work to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong defense strategy to challenge the scams and fraudulent activity. Our goal is to help our clients get the justice they deserve.

It’s important for renters to be aware of common scams and frauds and to know their rights. If you or someone you know has been the victim of a rental scam or fraud, it is important to seek the guidance of an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your rights, build a strong defense, and protect your interests throughout the legal process.