Police issue warning over rental fraud scam on Facebook Marketplace

A warning has been issued over a scam taking place through Facebook Marketplace and other online platforms.

Detectives in North Wales Police’s Economic Crime Unit say there has been an increase in the amount of fraud taking place on the platform.

Incidents reports include potential tenants paying a deposit to view a property that either doesn’t exist or is already occupied.

Often, people who are already renting a property have had visits from people wanting to view, who have all paid deposits ranging from £125 to £1000.

DC Rachel Roberts said: ‘The property rental market is currently very competitive, and potential tenants may be fooled into thinking that paying a deposit will help them secure a property.

‘Legitimate landlords will never ask you to pay money just to view a property, and we would encourage anyone who receives such a request to contact us via our live webchat or on 101.’