Scammers are increasingly targeting tenants with fraudulent messages instructing them to send rent payments to unauthorized numbers. These messages, often appearing urgent and official, can lead to financial loss and disputes with landlords.
How These Scams Work
- Fake Alerts from Fraudsters – Tenants receive messages claiming to be from their landlord or property manager, directing them to send rent payments to a different phone number or account.
- Impersonation of Landlords or Agents – Scammers may use similar names, fraudulent documents, or hacked contacts to appear legitimate.
- Sense of Urgency – Messages often threaten eviction or penalties for non-compliance, pressuring tenants into acting quickly without verification.
How to Protect Yourself
- Verify Directly – Always confirm with your landlord or official agent before making payments to a new number.
- Use Official Payment Channels – Pay rent through established methods like registered bank accounts, verified mobile money paybills, or property management platforms.
- Beware of Sudden Changes – If the payment details suddenly change, request written confirmation from your landlord.
- Report Suspicious Messages – Inform your landlord and relevant authorities if you receive a dubious request.
- Mark as spam - using truecaller mark the number that has contacted you with this dubioius request as spam
Fraudulent rent payment scams are on the rise, but vigilance can prevent losses. Always verify payment details and use secure, official channels to protect your hard-earned money.
