Tenancy Deposit Scam Alert

Action Fraud has received several reports where fraudsters are claiming to be landlords of properties offered for rent online.

How it works

• Prior to viewing a property, the criminal requests that the individual pays a deposit.
• After the victim pays the money, the scammer sends a bogus email purporting to be from a Tenancy Deposit Scheme confirming they have received their deposit.
• This email is false! The money was sent directly to the criminals' account.
• The victim is left out of pocket and without the home they thought they were renting.

What You Need To Do

• Always make sure you have viewed the property with an agent or landlord before agreeing to rent a property.
• Don't be rushed or pressured into making a decision.
• Only transfer funds when you're satisfied a genuine property, safety certificates and valid contract are in place.
• Only pay for goods or service by bank transfer if you know and trust the person. Payments via bank transfer offer you no protection if you become a victim of fraud.

Before you pay a deposit check it is one of the government-backed Tenancy Deposit Schemes https://www.gov.uk/tenancy-deposit-protection