Rental scams have increased in recent years.
Over half a million euro was stolen from the public in rental scams last year.
Gardaí is warning the public to watch out for con artists due to the rise in fraudulent practices.
Accommodation fraud rose by almost a third in 2021 compared to the year before.
Typical red flags include rental prices that appear too good to be true.
Landlords putting unnecessary time pressure is another red flag to watch out for.
Rental Scam Awareness Advice - Caution is advised, if the rent sounds too good to be true.
Gardaí are advising people to be wary of rental scams, particularly at this time of year when students are returning to college.https://t.co/sPCmKCeCpN pic.twitter.com/fDkw4Dwfhl— Garda Info (@gardainfo) July 25, 2019
Another suspicious request may be landlords asking for rent money through things such as gift cards.
Detective Inspector Stephen Meighan spoke on the issue today.
He says anyone who is scammed out of their money should report it to the bank and Gardai immediately.
"Ideally, almost within the day that you learn that you've been defrauded," he said.
"It's when the payment is made and like I suppose, realistically, the sooner that you get onto your bank.."
"..the better chance they have of freezing the money at the destination."
