Provincial police in Middlesex County are advising prospective renters to be diligent after officers were made aware of half a dozen fraudulent rentals in the Glencoe-area.
According to Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), officers were contacted last Thursday evening by an individual claiming they had come across a fraudulent listing while trying to rent a house in Glencoe.
The individual told police they completed an initial application for the apartment. Afterwards, the unknown suspect requested money to serve as a deposit to hold the property. The person did not send payment to the suspect.
An investigation into the incident led to the discovery of six other rental properties fraudulently listed on a website. As a result, police are reminding residents looking for a rental unit to be aware of the scam so they avoid falling victim to fraud.
“If you are looking to rent an apartment or house, request to meet in person, at the prospective residence,” read a statement from the OPP. “Be suspicious of requests for payment prior to signing a contract, especially those that require you to act immediately.”
The investigation into the fake listings is ongoing, police say.
Residents are being reminded to verify any unsolicited requests from other people before responding or providing personal information. If an individual begins to pressure you, police suggest that you end communication with them.
Anyone with information about the investigation is asked to call Middlesex County OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips can also be made to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
More information about fraud and current scams going around can be found on Canadian Anti-Fraud’s website.
