Swiss Consumer Forum Warns of Growing Rental Scams
The Swiss Consumer Forum (KF) has issued a warning about a growing rental scam targeting those seeking accommodation. A man from abroad recently fell victim, paying over 4,000 Swiss francs to a fraudulent landlord who disappeared. Organized crime groups are behind these scams, targeting retirees and exploiting online platforms like Facebook Marketplace.
Fraudsters are posting listings for genuine properties, but these are not genuinely available for rent. The scammers, often operating internationally, trick victims into sending money directly to them, often via Gmail login or Yahoo mail. The Consumer Forum advises caution with offers that don't include viewings, redirects to third-party sites, or payment requests via email. The Swiss Marketplace Group (SMG), which operates Immoscout24, Flatfox, and Homegate, has comprehensive security measures in place to protect users. However, fraudulent listings, though rare, can still occur.
To protect yourself, always view the property in person, avoid third-party sites, and never send money via Gmail or Yahoo mail. If you suspect a scam, report it to the Swiss Marketplace Group or the Consumer Forum. Stay vigilant and prioritize your safety when searching for rental properties.
