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Rental scam stings person for $2,250
Consider this a cautionary tale in a time when rental-housing availability remains scarce in most East Kootenay communities.
On July 30, an individual reported to Columbia Valley RCMP that they had fallen victim to a rental scam.
“The individual was looking to move to Invermere and started communicating with a person he believed to be the owner of a rental property. Emails and photos of the residence were exchanged and $2,250 was eventually transferred via email. When the renter came back requesting more money the individual became suspicious and started conducting research on the property,” outlined Sgt. Darren Kakuno, Columbia Valley RCMP Detachment commander.
The realtor who had the property listed confirmed the house was not for rent and that it was a scam.
“Police continue to investigate; however, many of these scams are initiated overseas and fake phone numbers and accounts are utilized which limits investigative avenues. Please be cautious about sending money to anyone for goods or services advertised on-line unless you’ve done your research,” Sgt. Kakuno recommended.
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