Authorities Issue Warning About Possible Rental Scam

Thunder Bay City Police Warn Public of Online Rental Scam

City police are alerting the public to a potential rental scam targeting individuals using online marketplaces to find housing.

In a statement issued Friday, police urged residents to be cautious when entering into property rental agreements through these platforms. Thunder Bay Police have received numerous reports of individuals losing deposits after responding to fraudulent online postings. Victims believed they were communicating with landlords and transferred funds via e-transfer, only to find themselves ignored and unable to proceed.

At least two incidents were linked to a property on Franklin Street, which social media users have flagged as a known scam.

Police, through their Economic Online Unit, are encouraging residents to discuss this issue with family and friends who may be vulnerable to such schemes.

Scammers often request a deposit or move-in fee without allowing the victim to view the property. They may claim high demand for the listing to create urgency, pressuring victims into acting quickly.

For more information on fraud and scams, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online at: https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm.