Increase your Rental Awareness
The Edmonton Police Service has reported an increase in Rental Scams making Rental Awareness progressively necessary.
Be aware that scammers have been utilizing platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji, and rental websites like Rentfaster.ca. Individuals are offering rental properties they do not own to scam renters out of a security deposit and then they disappear with the money.
Please Note: Cantiro Homes does NOT rent our homes
If you find a Cantiro Homes property listed for rent on any online platform, please be aware that it is a scam and contact us at marketing@cantiro.ca so that we can report it to the authorities.
Learn more about rental scams and how to protect yourself on the Edmonton City Police website including:
What is a fraudulent Property?
A rental property is fraudulent when the property that is offered does not belong to the scammer however, still exists. In other cases, the rental property has never existed, but is presented as if it does.
How to protect yourself from rental scams
It is important to verify the information that any landlord is providing. If possible, find a previous renter from that property or company, which will ensure you are getting accurate information based on experience. It’s a good idea to research the property online and physically see the property before any money is exchanged. In turn, be wary when a price seems ‘too good to be true’ as many scammers use rents below market value to lure renters. Additionally, if the landlord does not want to communicate face to face, or over the phone that is a red flag.
Never give your social security number under any circumstances.
What to do if you discover a fraudulent rental listing
If you have discovered a fraudulent listing, notify the buy/sell, rental website, or social media site (Rentfaster, Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji, etc.) so that they can remove the ad immediately and, beware, scammers usually have more than one account.
What To Do If You’ve Become a Victim in a Rental Scam
If you did send money or share financial information, report it to the financial institution used.
Gather all information pertaining to the situation, including the scammer’s profile name, how you made contact, social media screenshots, emails, etc. and contact your local police. Call the Edmonton City Police Service at 780-423-4567 or #377.
You can also file a report with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre -1-888-495-8501.
Be proactive; tell family, friends, coworkers and neighbours about your experience to warn them about online scams.