CRAFTON, PA — Police are warning residents about an increase in fake landlord scams targeting people searching for rental housing.
Scammers are posing as landlords of properties that may be legitimately listed for rent or not listed at all, according to the Crafton Borough Police Department.
Police advise residents to never send money through online apps without first meeting the person in person and verifying they are the actual property owners.
Legitimate landlords should provide access to the property and allow potential renters to view it before requesting any money, police said.
Most recently, police were made aware of someone posing as a landlord for a property on Thomas Street and requesting money be sent via PayPal.
Police said any pressure or quick requests for money without first meeting and verifying information could lead to potential loss of funds.
Property owners and landlords are urged to take steps to ensure potential customers have their specific contact information and be aware that scammers use rental ads to obtain money from people before they realize they are not the actual landlords.
Anyone with knowledge of these scams should report them to local police.
