The Grenville County OPP is warning the public about a rental scam.
The OPP say they have received complaints involving a Kemptville home being advertised on www.freerentads.ca. Scammers will create fake classified ads, often posted with a below average asking price. The fraudster may pretend to be a landlord living overseas who will give a discounted rate to a tenant that takes good care of the property. They will also find reasons not to take the renter on a tour of the residence. Once the offer has been accepted renters will be asked to send first and last months’ rent in exchange for keys. When victims are made aware of the fraud the ads are deleted and communication is terminated.
Some tips from the OPP for protecting yourself include; go to the address and schedule a showing, request a lease or contract, complete open source searches on rental addresses to ensure it’s not a duplicate, don’t send funds to strangers and contact Equifax and Transunion if you’ve provided sensitive information.
If you think you have been a victim of a scam please contact Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or the Grenville County OPP at 1-888-310-1122.
