Numerous complaints of possible rental fraud scams involving falsely advertised rental homes on Internet site Craig's List were received by the Shasta County District Attorney's Office, according to D.A. Investigator Bob Angulo in a June 9 press release.
The ads provide an address of the property to be rented, a brief description oft he property, monthly rental amount and an e-mail address to contact the person.
When you respond to the ad, the person will advise that the rental is available but the person is out of the country in Africa. The person will provide you a reason for being out of the country and tell you a little history about the house to be rented.
The person will then provide you a name and an overseas telephone number. The name provided is usually a real person who is not connected with the rental property. The name used could be a real estate agent, contractor or any person found on the Internet. The person may send you a rental contract, ask you for a security deposit and/or first month's rent and request that you send it to an overseas Post Office Box.
When looking for rental property, use a property management company whose broker is a member of the California Department of Real Estate or an attorney who is a member of the State Bar of California. If you are looking to rent property from the owner, personally meet the owner at the property to be rented. Ask for identification and record that information. Record the owner's vehicle license plate. Do not provide your personal information over the Internet as it could be used for the purpose of identity theft.
For questions, contact Angulo at 245-6350.
Scripps Interactive Newspapers Group
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