Accommodation scams students should be aware of

• Fake accommodation adverts – A property may not exist at all, even though the advert uses attractive photos and a realistic description.
• Deposit-before-viewing scam – The landlord asks for a deposit or booking fee before you have seen the accommodation.
• Below-market rent – A room or apartment is advertised at an unusually cheap price to encourage students to act quickly.
• Fake landlord – The person advertising may have no connection with the property and may be using somebody else’s photos or details.
• Pressure to pay immediately – Claims such as “there are five other students interested” are used to make you transfer money without checking the accommodation.
• Fake rental websites – Students may be directed to a convincing-looking website that collects deposits or personal information.
• Stolen property photos – Genuine photographs are copied from legitimate accommodation adverts and used in a fraudulent listing.
• Fake tenancy agreement – A professional-looking contract is provided to make the scam appear genuine.
• Overpayment scam – The supposed landlord sends or claims to send too much money and asks the student to refund the difference.
• Key or access-fee scam – Students are asked to pay money for keys, viewing access or registration before getting the accommodation.
• Identity theft – Scammers may request passports, bank details, PPS numbers or other personal information before there is any legitimate reason to do so.
• Fake student accommodation company – A scammer pretends to represent a letting agency, college or student accommodation provider.

🚩 Simple rule for students

Never transfer money simply because an accommodation advert looks genuine. View the property, check who owns or manages it, verify the landlord or agent, read the agreement carefully, and be particularly cautious about requests for payment by bank transfer or cryptocurrency.

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