Cranbrook RCMP is warning residents of a scammer using fake rental ads to prey on people looking for apartments.
The warning comes after a Cranbrook resident was conned out of $2,800 by someone claiming to have a unit for rent.
Cranbrook RCMP officials said the fake rental scam was reported to the detachment on Sunday after the victim was looking for a rental online.
The victim provided the suspect with the first and last month’s rent and all contact ended after the victim asked to see the apartment in person.
Police officials said ads for apartments in both Cranbrook and Ontario have been posted to several sites using the email address [email protected].
RCMP officials note that the photos for units in both areas were the same.
“Scammers are going online, uploading photos of apartments and posing as the owners in order to get cash. We want potential renters to know that they should not give out any money before viewing a property in person and ensuring the person showing the house or apartment proves ownership,” said Cst. Katie Forgeron, Cranbrook RCMP spokesperson.
Police said those particular rental ads appear to have been taken down.