Online property scam warning

THE LOCAL trading standards team has reminded people to be aware of online property scams after reports of ones involving flats apparently for rent in Lerwick.

Trading standards team leader David Marsh said they are not the first instances of scams like these on social media involving apparent Shetland properties.

Some of the scams involve people being told to transfer a deposit – but ultimately there is no property available and once paid they do not hear from the person again. Facebook groups in which people seek accommodation appear to be targeted.

Marsh gave the following advice:

• The law requires letting agents and landlords to protect tenants’ deposits by lodging the cash with an approved scheme.
• Check the property is registered with the local authority landlord registration scheme.
• Do not put down a deposit without viewing a property.
• Do not click on links provided by sellers, as these are likely to take you to suspicious websites which may appear genuine.
• Be wary of properties advertised to rent on social media, or on property portals other than the well-known ones.
• If a property appears to leased by a company such as Airbnb, get in touch with them through the official app to confirm authenticity.
• If you do lose money to a scam, contact your bank, Police Scotland and Trading Standards for help, support and advice.