The Bermuda Police Service continues to advise the public to “exercise caution when searching for Bermuda rental accommodations online, as another suspected rental scam was recently reported to police.”
A police spokesperson said, “In the latest instance, the suspicious requests consisted of:
- “A supposed requirement to send an initial $100 fee.
- “A claim that payment of an outstanding $800 deposit was necessary, to secure the apartment.
- “An alleged additional $1,000 fee, for the paperwork and key.
“Typically, in these deceitful interactions, contact is made through social media, with instructions to send all funds via an international money transfer company.
“Once again, it’s strongly recommended that members of the public:
- “Be suspicious of online housing rental listings that require personal information plus payment, before you have viewed the property.
- “Never send deposits, application fees, or processing fees to secure a viewing, without first verifying that the property and landlord are legitimate.
- “Confirm the identity of the landlord, or property manager, through reputable sources.
- “Be wary of requests to send money via wire transfer, or electronic payment platforms, particularly where there is pressure to act quickly.
- “Consider if an offer appears too good to be true. If so, it may be a scam.
“Anyone who believes they have encountered accommodation rental fraud, or has already made a payment to a suspected fraudster, is encouraged to report the matter to the Bermuda Police Service, at the earliest opportunity.
“The Bermuda Police Service continues to urge residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity, to help prevent others from becoming victims of this, or any other type of fraud.”