If you have listings, your listings are at risk from overseas organized crooks using the listing information on the internet to create fake rental ads on Facebook, Craigslist, others and stealing money from potential tenants.
Defenses:
Post "NOT FOR RENT" signs at the listing and in the photos.
Create Google Alerts for all your listings’ addresses. Monitor.
Drive by listings periodically to monitor, especially if the residence is vacant.
Contact law enforcement (local, SLED, FBI at www.ic3.gov) to pursue the crooks.
Contact the ad source (e.g., Craigslist, Facebook, other) for fake rental ad takedown.
Contact SCR and the local association.
Educate consumers about the fake rental scam.
Occasionally, the fake rental crook is in the USA and may be apprehended by law enforcement.
Overseas crooks can concoct fake phone numbers using SC area codes, others in this fake rental scam.
The fake rental scam has been around for many years. Beware.
Posted by: Byron King on 07/11/22 (This information is only accurate as of 07/11/22. You must contact SCR for updates and changes to this information after 07/11/22 as laws and regulations may change over time. SCR 803-772-5206 or email info at screaltors.org or email byron at screaltors.org)
This information is not legal advice. This information is intended only to provide general information and may not be relied upon as specific legal guidance. Legal counsel should always be consulted before acting in reliance on this information.