Man in Klaipėda defrauded in online rental deal – police issue warnings
A Klaipėda resident paid a deposit for a flat according to an advertisement but did not receive the property, and contact with the person posing as a landlord was lost. Law enforcement officers are sharing advice on how to identify fraudsters.
Man in Klaipėda defrauded in online rental deal – police issue warnings
One Klaipėda resident lost money this week when he attempted to rent a flat online. He transferred money to a person posing as a landlord, but never saw the promised flat, and contact with the fraudster was lost.
Officers from the Klaipėda District Police, describing this incident on social media, warn that similar actions may increase as the end of summer approaches. Fraudsters increasingly offer non-existent or third-party properties and holiday homes.
The police point to three important signs indicating possible fraud:
- Price significantly lower than the market rate. If a luxury flat in an attractive location is offered for a fraction of the usual price, it is worth thinking twice.
- Pressure to hurry. Fraudsters often claim to be expecting other candidates and demand that money be transferred immediately.
- Reluctance to communicate directly. Refusal to meet in person, show the premises, or even demonstrate them via video call should raise suspicion.
Before transferring funds, someone seeking accommodation should check whether the stated address exists on maps, search for the advertisement photos on the internet, and inquire about the landlord's reputation based on their contact details.
Officers emphasise: deposits should not be paid "blindly".
Victims are advised to report the incident without delay via the www.epolicija.lt portal or by calling 112.
Source: KL.lt / Klaipėdos diena
Source: Google News LT — Crime (lt)