FROM: HOLLEY CARNRIGHT
DATE: SEPTEMBER 6, 2018
RE: PRESS RELEASE – BEWARE THE RENTAL SCAM
The Ulster County District Attorney’s Division of Consumer Affairs is warning prospective tenants and landlords of the online rental scam, popular on Craigslist and elsewhere. Here are some tips to avoid becoming a victim…
· You can verify the owner of a property by contacting the County Clerk’s Office where the property is located. If it comes up under a different name, it’s a sign that a legitimate landlord’s ad has been hijacked.
· Do not wire money to pay a security deposit, application fee or first month’s rent. Wiring money is like sending cash.
· If you can’t see the place before signing a lease, walk away from the deal. You may not be dealing with a legitimate property owner or the place might not even exist.
· If the prospective landlord or tenant claims to be out of the country, they may very well be…and they may be a scammer. Scammers have been known to offer to get you keys through a lawyer or agent.
· Never forward a check for more than the agreed upon price. If you are asked to wire the excess to a third party for shipping or other expenses. This is a scam.
Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it’s likely a scam. Consumer Affairs can be reached at 340-3260.