THUNDER BAY — City police are warning the public about a potential rental scam.
Police, in a release issued on Friday, are urging the public to exercise caution when they are entering into property rental agreements through online marketplaces.
Thunder Bay Police have received numerous complaints about people reporting they’ve been scammed out of deposits after responding to online postings. The victims believe they are in contact with the landlords and e-transferred money to the provided email address, only to be ghosted at this point of the process.
At least two of the incidents listed a Franklin Street address, which users on social media have advised is a scam.
Police, through the economic online unit, is urging residents to speak with family and friends who may be vulnerable to being targeted by this type of scam.
Fraudsters often try to get victims to pay a deposit or a move-in fee, without allowing the victim to view the unit prior to making payment. They may indicate the listing is in high demand and present a sense of urgency to act.
For further information about various frauds and scams that may be circulating, please visit the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre online at: https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm
