Another victim of “renters” emerged
A 29-year-old resident of Tauragė district reported to the police. She reported that she suffered financially from scammers. The young woman became another victim of apartment “renters.” She found a liked apartment in an advertisement posted on social media on July 31.
She contacted the person presenting themselves as the landlord and agreed on the price and rental terms. Then the woman transferred money for the apartment rent – an advance payment – to the specified bank account.
After that, everything followed a scenario law enforcement officers have heard many times before.
The apartment was not rented to the woman, the money was not returned, and there is no way to contact the person presenting themselves as the landlord.
The woman can only console herself with the fact that the damage was not so great – she lost 300 euros.
Scammers exploit gullibility
A pre-trial investigation for fraud – obtaining small-value property of others by deception (a criminal offense) – has been initiated at the Tauragė district police station.
People wanting to rent a room or apartment often fall into the sights of fraudsters.
Scammers quickly manage to take advantage of people’s gullibility.
Criminals posting ads on internet portals and social networks – pretending to be apartment landlords – often indicate prices lower than those on the market.
Later, they explain to interested parties that for various reasons it is impossible to quickly view the apartment, and many people are interested, so the advance payment should be made immediately because someone else might do it faster.
As soon as they receive the money, scammers disappear as if into water.
Officers advise that those who want to settle safely and comfortably should first meet with the landlord.
It is necessary to inspect the apartment, make sure it is rented legally, draw up a contract, and only then pay the agreed amount.
It is also useful to read comments about persons presenting themselves as landlords or sellers.
