Barrie cops warn of rental scams targeting foreign students
· Toronto Sun
Police in Barrie have issued a warning after foreign students who sought places to rent have been the victims of scammers.
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Barrie Police said foreign and international students are frequently targeted, particularly when searching for housing, employment, or educational supports.
According to police, rental fraud is a common scam that sees victims asked to pay a deposit or first and last month’s rent for a unit that does not exist, is not actually available, or is not owned by the person advertising it.
High-pressure tactics
Scammers may use high-pressure tactics on students, telling them to act quickly because the unit is in high demand, police said. They may also refuse in-person viewings or provide excuses for why they cannot meet.
“Within the last year, Barrie Police has recorded over $100,000 in losses to rental scams that target international students,” Det. Kris Nicholson said in a statement.
“If you are unsure or unaware of the processes, please reach out to your student support office at your local college or university for further direction and assistance.”
Nicholson, working in Barrie Police’s Fraud Unit, said foreign students are encouraged to contact police “for guidance and assistance” when searching for a rental unit.
Police issued the warning during Fraud Prevention Month , an annual campaign which focuses on raising awareness of fraud trends.
Other common frauds
Police said other common frauds include fake job offers, tuition payment scams, and people impersonating government officials, banks, or immigration representatives.
Foreign students may be told there is an urgent issue with their visa, taxes, or student status and pressured to send money immediately, police said, adding requests for payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or e-transfers are strong indicators of fraud.
Police said students should be wary of unsolicited messages, especially those that create fear, urgency, or promise guaranteed results. Legitimate landlords, employers, financial institutions, and government agencies will not demand immediate payment or threaten consequences without proper documentation and verification.
Taking precautions
Several precautions can be taken to reduce the risk of becoming a victim, cops said, including viewing rental properties in person or through a verified representative before any money is exchanged. In addition, police said every effort should be made to verify that the property is for rent.
Job offers should be researched independently, and students should be wary of positions that require upfront fees or personal banking information, police said. Personal details, including passport information, study permits, and banking credentials, should never be shared through unsolicited emails or messages.
Police said anyone who believes they may be the target of a scam, or who has already sent money or personal information, is urged to contact authorities and report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Reporting scams helps protect others and supports ongoing fraud prevention efforts, cops added.