Estafa del alquiler y el depósito: cómo funciona, señales y qué hacer
Shopping scams · médio
The scammer copies real listings with their own contact details, sometimes for homes that are for sale, or invents listings with attractive photos and below-market rent. They ask for an application fee, deposit or first month's rent to "hold" the place before any viewing, plus Social Security number, driver's license photo and paystubs. Variants include fake self-guided tours and links to "credit checks" that lead to recurring fees.
The FTC received nearly 65,000 rental scam reports since 2020, with about US$ 65 million in losses; in the 12 months to June 2025, about half started with a fake Facebook ad. In the UK, Action Fraud warns students not to pay upfront before confirming the property exists and belongs to the advertiser.
Sinais / Signs
- Rent far below the local average
- A request for money before you've seen the property
- An advertiser who refuses to meet or show the property
- The same property listed with different prices or contacts
- Early requests for SSN, documents or a credit check via link
- Pressure to decide quickly
Prevenção / Prevention
- Search the address online for conflicting listings
- Visit the property with the landlord before paying
- Share sensitive data only after you've agreed to rent
- Sign a formal contract before any money changes hands
- Students: use university or student union approved housing lists
O que fazer / What to do
- Contact your bank or card issuer and try to dispute the payment
- Report the listing to the platform
- If you sent documents, protect yourself against identity theft
- Report to the FTC (US) or Action Fraud (UK)
FAQ
The landlord sent me a lockbox code. Does that prove it's real?
No. The FTC reports scammers copying self-tour listings and sending access codes.
Is paying a deposit always suspicious?
Deposits are normal, but paying to secure a place before viewing and signing a contract is a red flag.
FTC Data Spotlight - Rental scams hit home: $65 million in reported losses (2025) · Action Fraud - Students urged to watch out for rental scams