Rental and Visa scams on the rise
As Kingston welcomes back students this September, the Kingston Police Fraud Unit is issuing a crucial warning.
Students should be cautious of two prevalent scams.
First, apartment rental scams are targeting students. Scammers post fake rental ads online, often claiming they can't show the apartment before move-in. They ask for first and last month’s rent upfront, promising keys that never arrive. Students should never send money without visiting the property and should verify rental ads with property management.
Second, Chinese visa students are being targeted by scammers posing as Chinese police or embassy officials. These fraudsters claim students’ identities are compromised and demand money to avoid legal trouble or extradition.
Kingston Police remind students that no legitimate agency will ask for payments via wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Those who suspect fraud should report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
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