PUTNAM — The Putnam Police Department is investigating multiple reports of rental property scams occurring through Facebook Marketplace, officials said Tuesday.
According to police, scammers pose as landlords or property managers and arrange to meet prospective renters at apartments.
The scammers then fail to appear for scheduled viewings but provide lockbox information that gives victims access to the properties.
Police believe the lockbox information is likely obtained by scammers from actual landlords or property managers.
After victims tour the apartments and decide to rent, the fake landlords request application fees and payments through electronic platforms such as Zelle and Venmo.
Once multiple payments are made, the scammers cut off communication and remove the rental listings from Facebook Marketplace.
The Putnam Police Department urges prospective renters to exercise caution when searching for rental properties, noting these scams can be difficult to detect.
Officials recommend working with realtors or dealing directly with established property management companies to avoid becoming victims.
Residents who suspect they are being targeted by scammers are encouraged to contact the Putnam Police Department or their local law enforcement agency.
