Overview
- The federal security ministry issued a public alert and prevention guidance as more people search for rentals on social networks.
- Officials describe a common scheme involving bargain listings, a switch to apps like WhatsApp, forged IDs and contracts, advance deposits to “reserve” properties, and sudden disappearances that can cost several months of rent.
- Renters are urged to verify the landlord’s identity with an official ID that matches property deeds or entries in the Public Property Registry.
- Authorities recommend an in-person visit or a live video tour showing interior and exterior before any payment, no upfront money without a signed lease with clear terms, avoiding deals conducted only via social media or messaging, and safeguarding personal and banking data.
- Payments should be traceable, such as bank transfers to accounts in the landlord’s name, and suspected fraud can be reported to state Cyber Police units with contacts listed in the SSPC’s online Ciberguía.