Students are being warned about the possibility of fraudsters targeting them in the private housing rental market.  

The alert comes from the National Fraud Intelligence Burea's reporting centre, Action Fraud, which says the scam takes advantage of the squeeze on private accommodation for students.

The fraudsters press for quick upfront payments from students desperate to secure a property but who then discover they haven't actually been dealing with the landlord. 

See below for the release and more information.

Rental Fraud in Student Accommodation Alert

Alert message sent 03/08/2015 10:52:00

Information sent on behalf of Action Fraud (National Fraud Intelligence Bureau)

Seasonal rental fraud is an emerging trend with students looking for suitable accommodation around August, before the start of the new term.  Fraudsters use a variety of websites to advertise available properties to rent. often at attractive rates and convenient locations. Adverts will seem genuine, accompanied by a number of photos and contact information to discuss your interest.  Due to demand, students will often agree to pay upfront fees to secure the property quickly, without viewing the property, only to discover that the fraudster posing as the landlord does not have ownership of the property, or often there are already tenants living there.  Protect Yourself Only use reputable letting companies. Do some online research such as using Google maps to check the property does exist. Make an appointment to view the property in person. Always view the property prior to paying any advance fees. Look out for warning signs, such as landlords requesting a ‘holding deposit’ due to the property being in high demand. A landlord will usually conduct some due diligence on any successful applicant. Be wary of handing over cash without the landlord requesting employment or character references.