High-end condos, low rates: yep, it's a scam, say Yukon police
At least 1 person in Whitehorse victimized by 'too good to be true' scheme
RCMP are warning Yukoners about the latest rental scam hitting Whitehorse.
Scammers are posting online ads for high-end rental properties at very affordable rates, then defrauding victims who forward deposits for the non-existent vacancy.
The rates offered are "almost too good to be true," said RCMP spokesperson Julia Fox.
Interested renters are asked to fill out an application form and promised keys to the residence in exchange for a month's rent and a damage deposit totaling $1,500.
"The new tenant arrives at the residence, possessions in tow, to find it's not for rent whatsoever," said Fox.
Contacted by email, the scammer claims he's moved to the United States for two years and is "looking for a responsible person that can take very good care of it, as we are not after the money."
Police say at least one person has been victimized in Whitehorse.
"The actual owner of the residence is left quite confused, and the scammer has gotten away with usually a decent amount of cash," says Fox.
Fox says police want to hear from people who feel they are being scammed and encourages people to report such schemes to the Canadian Anti-fraud Centre.