Warning on accommodation scan

GARDAÍ are advising the public to be vigilant in the wake of a recent student accommodation scam, which is being investigated.

Crime prevention officer Sergeant Joe Downey highlighted a recent scam that has come to light, whereby rented accommodation is advertised on well-known internet sites targeting third level students.
He explained the scam is primarily operating in areas where accommodation is available close to universities and other third level institutions.

“A deposit is sought in advance and the advertiser indicates that the keys will be sent in advance, on receipt of the deposit, by a reputable delivery company.

“In the students’ eagerness to secure the rented accommodation, they forward the deposit without seeing the property or meeting the landlord,” Sergeant Downey outlined.

He said that when the money has cleared, no keys are sent and no further contact is made, with a resulting loss to the student.