Cyber Crime Police Warn Citizens About Rising Online Rental Scams

The cyber crime police have issued a public alert warning citizens about a growing online rental scam in which fraudsters impersonate landlords or property agents and trick people into paying advance rent through UPI or bank transfers.

According to the alert, scammers are posting fake property listings on platforms such as OLX, Facebook Marketplace, and WhatsApp groups. They often claim to be landlords or agents and demand advance payments to “block” the property.

Authorities said victims are usually lured by low rents, attractive property photos, and urgent payment demands. Scammers also avoid physical meetings, citing excuses like being abroad or unavailable, and communicate only through WhatsApp or Telegram. Some even send fake rental agreements or ID proofs digitally to appear genuine.

The police have advised citizens to take precautions such as:

• Never paying advance rent without physically verifying the property.

• Verifying the owner or agent’s identity through a video call or in-person meeting.

• Using verified rental platforms with secure payment systems.

• Avoiding deals that appear “too good to be true.”

• Reporting suspicious listings to platform administrators immediately.

Victims are urged to report such incidents to the National Cyber Crime Helpline (1930), the official website cybercrime.gov.in, or their nearest police station, and to file an FIR with transaction details and screenshots.

Authorities have reiterated that awareness and caution are key to preventing online rental frauds.