Surrey man loses $1,680 after falling victim to rental scam originating in Trail

Rental scam in Trail

Photo: Samantha Holomay

Trail RCMP reported that a 24-year-old Surrey man was scammed out of $1,680 after falling victim to a rental scam.

Police said that they received a report about the scam, originating in Trail on March 17 at 3:45 p.m.

The man had responded to a rental advertisement that was posted on social media. After seemingly locking down the property, he sent an e-transfer, but when he asked to visit the property he was contacted by the landlord who demanded more money.

"This could happen to anyone. Please do not send money electronically before meeting the landlord or agent at the residence,” said Sgt Wicentowich of the Trail RCMP.

The man refused to send extra money and the landlord cut off communication.

“Rental properties are hard to find due to a general shortage of quality, affordable residences in the area,” said Wicentowich.

To learn more about how to keep yourself from being involved in a rental scam, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website for more information.