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Rental scams usually follow the same script: an attractive flat at a low price, a landlord who is "abroad" and can't show it, and pressure to pay a deposit by bank transfer or a money service before you've seen anything. A few habits protect you.
- Pay only through the platform's own checkout when you book on a booking site. Never move the conversation or the payment to email, messaging apps or wire transfers.
- For long-term rentals, see the flat (in person or a live video call where you choose what to look at) and check the landlord's or agent's identity before paying anything.
- Be wary of prices far below similar flats, requests for ID scans or deposits before a viewing, and anyone who refuses a written contract.
- Use the platform's protection (for example tenant-protection or booking-guarantee schemes) and keep all messages on the platform.
- If something feels wrong, stop and report the listing to the platform and, if money was lost, to the police and your bank.
Country-specific warnings
Official or reputable warnings for specific countries, from our country guides:
- United Arab Emirates: Dubai Police have arrested fake agents posting non-existent rentals; report suspicious listings via the Dubai Police app or 901 and never pay before verifying the agent and title. bron
- Estonia: Do not pay anything before viewing the flat and signing (and understanding) the agreement, and avoid cash payments or get a signed receipt. bron
- United Kingdom: Report rental fraud to Report Fraud (0300 123 2040) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, or to Police Scotland on 101; contact your bank immediately if money was sent. bron
- Ireland: A common scam is an advertiser who cannot show the property but asks for a deposit; always view in person and agree terms before paying anything. bron
- United States: The FTC warns that scammers hijack or copy real listings, swap in their own contact details and ask for deposits before you see the unit; never wire money or pay by gift card or crypto for a place you have not visited. bron