File a complaint with the ic3 :

Make sure to report.

The ic3, or internet crime complaint center, is a government agency that makes it easy for individuals to report a crime that takes place online.

Check out the apartment yourself (or send a trusted friend) to make sure it is what’s been advertised.

Check ownership and licensing of landlord/property manager.

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But using trusted sites and knowing the red flags before signing a lease can help you avoid being a victim of a rental scam.

Check out the rental company.

Here are a few tips on how to catch a rental scammer and stop them from ripping anyone else off by reporting rental scams:

How to avoid rental scams:

No one wants to learn that the rental they were touring was a scam.

Rental scams can be daunting but don't swear off real estate websites just yet.

As a renter, it’s important to know how to protect yourself against those who may try to take your money fraudulently.

When possible, meet in person.

Always make sure to see the inside of the property.

Maybe with a different owner or rental company name?

Learn how to spot a rental scam and safely search for your next property.

6 common rental scams and tips for avoiding them.

Search their website to see if the property is listed there, too.

Read documents carefully, and don’t transfer any money until you’re confident in the landlord or broker.

Do other ads come up for the same address?

That’s most likely a scammer.

1) you’re having trouble contacting the landlord or leasing agent.

Dealing in cash is a bad start

Those are signs of a scam.

Quick tips to avoid rental scams when you’re searching for a rental.

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A guide to recognizing and avoiding rental scams.

Search online for the rental’s address, plus the name of the property owner or rental company listed.

10 red flags to look out for.

Need more space than an apartment, condo or townhouse can offer, but not ready to buy?

Phone numbers alone can be spoofed, so corroborate authenticity with supplemental info.

We prepared an ultimate list of tips that will teach you how to spot a rental scammer while looking for a perfect place, and we’re ready to make a real homegrown renting expert out of you.

This means knowing how to spot and avoid rental scams, especially online.

If the landlord insists you pay a fee or deposit before they show you the place, keep looking.