Boone County Sheriff’s Office warns residents about rental property scams | Mid-Missouri News
The Boone County Sheriff’s Office issued a warning on Facebook about a new rental property scam.
Several recent incidents involve fraudulent rental listings posted on social media platforms and online apps. Scammers are researching local rental properties to get information such as the property’s address and photos to create fake advertisements.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the suspects pose as landlords and communicate with potential renters through emails and other apps. Victims have reported signing fake rental agreements and sending payments, many have been traced to accounts outside the United States.
The Sheriff’s Office says victims have lost significant amounts of money, and legitimate owners are forced to ask them to vacate their properties.
Officials urge residents to verify that property owners are legitimate and available to meet in person before exchanging money or significant agreements. They also warn never to force entry into a property for any reason.
