Students Urged To Be Wary of Rental Scams

Fianna Fáil TD for Kildare South Fiona O’Loughlin TD O’Loughlin made the comments after she was contacted by a number of students who were targeted by scammers in recent days.
In one instance a student was defrauded of €550 when a scammer posing as a landlord requested a deposit for accommodation which did not exist.
"This was an elaborate scam which involved fake feedback from previous tenants and a management agent. Similar stories are emerging right across the country," says Deputy O’Loughlin.
“It’s an extremely difficult rental market for students to find adequate accommodation and scammers are well aware of this fact. Students need to be cautious and ensure they take the necessary precautions when searching for accommodation.
“An Garda Síochána has been proactive in highlighting the threat posed by rental scammers.
"They have pointed out that the number of rental scammers peaks at this time of year when unsuspecting students are frantically searching for accommodation."
The Gardaí have put up a comprehensive guideline on their website which outlines what steps students should take to prevent them from falling victim to rental scammers.
“I urge students and parents to be vigilant as they search for accommodation. People should always meet a prospective landlord in person in the accommodation to be rented,"concludes Deputy O’Loughlin.
"They should also request identification and use cheques or bank drafts to pay deposits and keep copies of receipts and payments and any correspondence.”