RCMP warn of rental scam in Trail
By Trail Champion
On Monday, March 17, at 3:45 p.m., a frontline Trail and District RCMP officer received a report about a rental scam that occurred in Trail, according to RCMP Sgt. Mike Wicentowich.
“A 24-year-old Surrey man was relocating to Trail and he found a rental house advertised on a social media platform. The man contacted the landlord
and subsequently sent $1680 via electronic transfer to secure the residence,” Wicentowich said.
“When the man later attempted to arrange to have someone visit the residence for an inspection, the landlord
demanded more money. The man refused and the landlord
ceased all communication with him. The man realized that he had been the victim of a scam.”
Wicentowich said the money is not recoverable.
The man reported the scam to the police so others may be aware and avoid falling prey to it.
Rental properties are hard to find due to a general shortage of quality, affordable residences in the area. This could happen to anyone. Please do not send money electronically before meeting the landlord or agent at the residence. This will help reduce your chances of being defrauded.
For more information, please visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website.
