Avoiding Scams

Source: https://housing.unimelb.edu.au/pages/avoiding-scams Parent: https://housing.unimelb.edu.au/

Scams targeting rental providers

There have been reports of scams specifically targeting landlords and property owners. The scenario usually involves a scammer claiming to be a student or a student's parent who wants to do a credit card transfer which can be more than the asking rental amount. They scam you by asking you to reimburse them the difference via Western Union or PayPal.

Scams targeting renters

Scams targeting renters and tenants looking for accommodation often involve a scammer offering fake rental properties. Sometimes the scammers claim you can't physically inspect the property because they are interstate or otherwise unavailable, and other scammers may show you properties they have no right to rent to you. They scam you by asking for your personal information and upfront bond and rent money to secure the property. Your personal and credit card details may also be used for credit card and identity fraud.

Finding room replacements

If you are securing a replacement tenantfor your University Accommodation, please get in touch with our Residential Services Team to let them manage the process. Do not use financial or other incentives to encourage a person to rent your room.

Tips to protect yourself against scams

Always inspect a property in person before paying any bond or rent money to the rental provider
If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is
If possible, verify that the property exists and is available for rent
Do a search of the rental provider's phone number and email address to see if they have been flagged before
Monitor the Scamwatch website for news and alert on the latest scams.
A Rental Non-compliance Registeris available online. You can search for your provider’s name and if they have a previous conviction, it will appear on their profile.

For more information including where to report scams and get help, visit Consumer Affairs Victoria and Scamwatch.