Police warning: £500 rental scam in Elgin

Police have issued a warning after a man searching for a place to live in Elgin was allegedly scammed out of £500.

The force say that investigations are ongoing regarding the incident.

A spokesperson stated: "A man advertised online that he was looking for a rental property in Elgin and was subsequently contacted by the scammer.

"Photographs of the property were sent to the victim. Arrangements made to view the property and the victim paid just over £500 to finalise the contract.

"The scammer failed to appear for the viewing and ended all contact."

Police Scotland are advising people to never part with money before viewing a property and verifying the landlord's details.

The details of most private landlords can be viewed HERE.

PC Richard Russell, a North East crime reduction officer, said: "Fraudsters will often tell you there's a lot of interest in the property and, to secure it, you must send money even without having visited it.

"Make sure you visit the property with a reputable agent or landlord and consider speaking to the neighbours.

"Be suspicious of anyone who refuses to let you visit.

"Ask for ID from the landlord to establish they are who they say they are. Also ask to see copies of the tenancy agreement.

"Beware of adverts with no telephone numbers and make sure any number works.

"After the above steps have been followed, transfer funds to a bank account having obtained the details by contacting the landlord or agent directly.

"If the bank account is not in their name, this is very likely to be a scam and you should not make any payments."

For information on scams and frauds visit HERE