ICYMI: Kilkenny gardaí issue urgent warning over vicious scam
Gardaí are urging students to be alert to potential rental scams and to stop, think and talk before handing over money.
Gardaí have issued a warning to third-level students in Kilkenny who are searching for accommodation ahead of the new academic year, urging them to be alert to potential rental scams.
Students are being advised to research the local rental market and prices before agreeing to a property, particularly if a deal appears unusually cheap.
Gardaí say students should never agree to rent a property without viewing it in person and should not transfer money to secure accommodation before seeing it.
They are also advising students not to make any payment or hand over a deposit until a written contract or lease has been provided. Students should also ensure any keys are handed over in person and check that they actually provide access to the property.
Gardaí have warned that scammers may use fake contracts and fake keys to make a bogus rental property appear legitimate, while highly convincing scams can be designed to pressure students into making a quick decision.
Students are being urged to be particularly cautious if a prospective landlord only communicates through WhatsApp or social media, refuses to meet in person or demands payment before a contract or lease has been signed.
They should also be wary of requests for payment through EFT, wire transfer, cryptocurrency, PayPal or iTunes gift cards.
The warning comes as students across the country begin searching for accommodation ahead of the new college year.
Gardaí are urging anyone who suspects they are being scammed to contact their bank immediately and then report the matter to gardaí.
Further information and advice is available from FraudSMART.