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Police: Beware of online renters scam

Posted at 1:33 PM, Jun 21, 2016
and last updated 2016-06-21 14:33:19-04

The Green Bay Police Department is warning consumers to be cautious while responding to Craigslist home rental ads. In a news release, the department says its received new reports about a scam involving the popular buying and selling website.

The scam usually involves nice photographs of an attractive looking home or apartment. Prospective tenants are told to visit the property, but they have an excuse on why the inside of the property is unavailable. "The owner is out of town," or "the current tenants haven't moved out yet."

Related: Better Business Bureau warns against renter scams.

 

 

They are asked to transfer money, gift cards or some other form of untraceable payment option as a deposit or first month's rent as payment.

Police advise renters most legitimate property management companies will meet with tenants at the property in person where they can see what they are renting inside and out.

Read the full release here.