Gardaí have issued a strong warning to students about the rising threat of rental scams, as recent reports reveal that 12 individuals were defrauded of over €20,000 in just one month. The victims lost an average of €1,729 each, with one person losing a staggering €3,685.
According to Irishexaminer, the majority of these scams were carried out through social media platforms and online advertisements, where unsuspecting renters were tricked into paying for accommodation that either didn’t exist or was already occupied. Gardaí are urging students to exercise caution when searching for accommodation online and to be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.
With the new academic year approaching, Gardaí emphasize the importance of verifying the legitimacy of landlords and properties before making any payments. They also recommend meeting the landlord in person and viewing the property before transferring money.
This warning serves as a reminder to stay vigilant, especially during the busy rental season, to avoid falling victim to these costly scams.