NANAIMO — Local Mounties are reminding renters to do their due diligence before sending anyone money, after a local resident was scammed out of $4,000.
RCMP say the victim was responding to an online advertisement for a Nanaimo rental, which included detailed information like a rental agreement and land title information.
It was convincing enough to appear legitimate, and the victim transferred multiple payments electronically.
However, when the victim went to view the property, the legitimate owners told them that the advertisement was fake, and they were not authorized to rent the home.
Police later learned the same property has been used in previous rental scam attempts.
Nanaimo RCMP Ins. Donovan Tair said it’s worth taking a few extra steps to verify information before sending any money.
“Finding affordable housing can be stressful, and scammers often take advantage of people who feel pressured to secure a place to live quickly.”
Police say that to avoid getting caught in a rental scam, never send money until the property is verified in person.
Be wary if the rent is significantly below market value, if you’re pressed to act quickly, or if the landlord is unable to meet in person.
Research the address online to check for duplicate postings or scam warnings, and if possible, verify the landlord is the rightful owner of the property.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted by a rental scam should report it to their local police department, financial institution, and/or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
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