What Is the Off-Campus Housing Rental Scam?

Rental scams targeting college students often involve fake property listings posted online. Scammers may pose as landlords or property managers and pressure students to send deposits or rent upfront for apartments that don’t exist or aren’t actually available. These scams can result in lost money and lost time during a critical housing search.

How the Scam Works

Scammers post appealing rental ads, often with below-market prices and attractive amenities, on platforms like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. They communicate with prospective renters via email or text, claiming urgency due to high demand. The scammer then asks for a security deposit or first month’s rent to “hold” the unit, often through wire transfer or prepaid cards, before any in-person tour. Once the money is sent, the scammer disappears.

Example of the Scam

Jessica, a junior at a nearby university, found a spacious two-bedroom apartment close to campus that was listed for $800/month. The “landlord” claimed to be out of town and asked her to wire a deposit to secure it. Excited by the deal and anxious about losing the place, she paid and never heard back again. The listing disappeared, and the apartment turned out to be occupied by someone else entirely.

Tips to Protect Yourself From Off-Campus Housing Scams

To avoid falling victim to off-campus housing scams, here are some steps you can take:

• Always verify the property and the landlord. Look up the address online, verify ownership, and search for any duplicate listings on other sites.
• Never send money before seeing the property. Scammers often claim to be out of town; insist on an in-person or video tour and verify access.
• Be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true. Scammers lure in victims with deals that undercut the market.
• Use official rental platforms or your school’s housing office. Universities often maintain trusted housing resources to help students avoid fraud.
• Avoid pressure tactics. Scammers thrive on urgency. Take your time to confirm details before making any commitments.

If You’ve Been Scammed

If you’ve already shared money or personal information, here are steps you can take right away to limit the damage and report the scam:

• Contact us and any financial institution you work with. If your account information has been compromised or if you have mistakenly given money to a scammer, let us know.
• Report the scam to the FTC. File a report with the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.FTC.gov. Also inform your local law enforcement.
• Report the scam to the state attorney general. You can find information at NAAG.org.
• Spread the word to friends and classmates. The more people are aware of this scam, the fewer will fall for it.