Profession page
Scams targeting real estate professionals and homebuyers
Real estate scams exploit the high dollar amounts and time pressure of property transactions. Wire fraud during closing, fake rental listings, and title deed theft target buyers, sellers, agents, and renters at their most vulnerable moments.
Common searches
Why this profession gets targeted
- Real estate transactions involve the largest payments most people ever make, creating high-value targets.
- Closing timelines create urgency that scammers exploit with last-minute wire instruction changes.
- Rental markets in competitive cities make desperate renters more willing to pay deposits sight-unseen.
What to check first
- Always verify wire instructions by calling your title company or agent at a number you already have — never from the email itself.
- Never send a deposit or first month's rent without physically visiting the property.
- Be suspicious of any last-minute changes to payment amounts, accounts, or closing instructions.
property tax lien scam
Scammers send official-looking letters or make calls claiming there is a lien on your property due to unpaid taxes and demand immediate payment to remove it.
Contact your county tax assessor's office directly to verify any claims about liens on your property.
Taxpayers
U.S.
fake Airbnb support scam
Scammers impersonate Airbnb customer support via phone calls, emails, or fake help websites to steal login credentials, payment information, or trick users into making off-platform payments.
Contact Airbnb support only through the official app or airbnb.com — never through phone numbers found in Google search results.
Travelers
U.S.
USPS Informed Delivery phishing scam
Phishing emails impersonate USPS Informed Delivery notifications, tricking users into clicking links that lead to fake login pages to steal their USPS.com account credentials.
Access Informed Delivery only by logging in directly at informeddelivery.usps.com — never through links in emails.
USPS Informed Delivery users
U.S.
Zillow agent impersonator scam
Scammers impersonate licensed real estate agents listed on Zillow, contacting potential buyers or renters to collect personal financial information or upfront fees under the guise of facilitating a transaction.
Verify any agent's identity by calling their brokerage directly using the number listed on the brokerage website.
Homebuyers
U.S.
Zillow pre-approval phishing scam
A phishing email or ad claims to offer instant mortgage pre-approval through Zillow, harvesting Social Security numbers, financial records, and personal information.
Apply for mortgage pre-approval only through verified lenders or directly at zillow.com/home-loans.
Homebuyers
U.S.
Zillow mortgage rate bait scam
Deceptive ads or emails promise unrealistically low mortgage rates through Zillow, collecting personal and financial information from hopeful borrowers.
Compare mortgage rates on trusted sites like zillow.com, bankrate.com, or your own bank.
Homebuyers
U.S.
Zillow home valuation data harvest scam
A phishing ad or email offers a free home valuation through Zillow, but the form collects extensive personal information used for identity theft and targeted real estate scams.
Check your home's Zestimate for free directly at zillow.com — no additional personal data is required.
Homeowners
U.S.
Utility account identity fraud
Identity details are used to open power, gas, or telecom accounts that generate bills in the victim's name.
Report fraudulent accounts and place a fraud alert or freeze with bureaus.
Renters
Global
power company disconnection threat scam
Scammers call or text pretending to be your electric utility, claiming your power will be shut off within hours unless you pay immediately via gift card or wire transfer.
Hang up and call your utility company directly using the number on your bill or their official website
Homeowners
U.S.
water bill overdue scam
Fraudsters send official-looking texts or emails claiming your water bill is overdue and your service will be suspended unless you click a link and pay immediately.
Do not click links in unexpected texts or emails about utility bills — log in to your account directly through the official website
Homeowners
U.S.
gas company impersonator scam
Criminals pose as gas company employees, either by phone or at your door, claiming there is a gas leak or billing issue to gain access to your home or steal payment information.
Never let anyone into your home without verifying their identity — call the gas company directly to confirm any scheduled visits
Homeowners
U.S.
smart meter upgrade scam
Scammers contact homeowners claiming they need to pay for a mandatory smart meter upgrade or risk losing service, when in reality utility-provided meter upgrades are free.
Contact your utility directly to ask about any meter upgrade programs — legitimate upgrades are provided and installed at no cost
Homeowners
U.S.
solar panel door-to-door scam
High-pressure door-to-door salespeople misrepresent solar panel costs, savings, and government incentive programs to lock homeowners into predatory contracts or collect large upfront deposits.
Never sign a contract on the same day — take time to get competing quotes from licensed solar installers
Homeowners
U.S.
utility rebate phishing scam
Scammers send emails or texts posing as your utility, claiming you qualify for an energy rebate or refund, then steal your bank details through a fake claim form.
Do not click links in unsolicited rebate offers — visit your utility company website directly to check for legitimate programs
Homeowners
U.S.
energy audit scam
Fraudulent contractors offer free or low-cost home energy audits, then pressure homeowners into overpriced and unnecessary repairs or equipment installations.
Only schedule energy audits through your utility company or certified programs like ENERGY STAR Home Advisor
Homeowners
U.S.
winterization home protection scam
Scammers target homeowners before winter, offering bogus pipe insulation, furnace inspections, or weatherproofing services at inflated prices for work that is never completed or done poorly.
Check your utility company for legitimate weatherization assistance programs, especially LIHEAP for low-income households
Homeowners
U.S.
utility overpayment refund scam
Scammers call claiming you overpaid your utility bill and need to provide bank details or remote computer access so they can process your refund, then drain your account.
Hang up and call your utility company directly — legitimate overpayments are credited to your next bill automatically
Homeowners
U.S.
broadband internet service scam
Fraudsters impersonate internet service providers, calling to offer fake discounts, upgrades, or to fix non-existent connection problems, then steal payment or personal information.
Hang up on unsolicited ISP calls and contact your provider directly using the number on your bill
Homeowners
U.S.
influencer promotion scam
Influencers promote fraudulent products, services, or investment schemes to their followers without disclosing they are being paid, or without verifying what they are promoting is legitimate.
Research any product or investment independently before purchasing, regardless of who promotes it
Social media users
U.S.
storm chaser roofer scam
After a major storm, out-of-town contractors go door to door offering cheap roof repairs, collect deposits, and do shoddy work or disappear.
Verify the contractor's license, insurance, and local business registration before signing any contract.
Homeowners
U.S.
driveway repaving scam
A crew claims to have leftover asphalt from a nearby job and offers a cheap driveway seal or repave that uses watered-down sealant or thin asphalt.
Never hire a contractor who solicits door to door — reputable paving companies have established customer pipelines.
Homeowners
U.S.
tree removal scam
Unlicensed operators offer cheap tree removal but leave stumps, damage property, or abandon debris, and have no insurance to cover the damage.
Verify the company carries both liability insurance and workers' compensation — ask for a certificate of insurance and call the insurer to confirm.
Homeowners
U.S.
plumbing emergency scam
A plumber responding to an emergency call inflates the scope of work, claims additional problems exist, or charges extreme markups for parts.
Unless water is actively flooding, get at least two estimates before authorizing major plumbing work.
Homeowners
U.S.
HVAC inspection scam
A company offers a cheap HVAC inspection and then claims the system has dangerous defects requiring thousands in immediate repairs or replacement.
Get a second opinion from another licensed HVAC contractor before agreeing to any major repair or replacement.
Homeowners
U.S.
foundation crack repair scam
A contractor exaggerates the severity of cosmetic foundation cracks, claiming the home is at risk of structural failure to sell unnecessary repairs.
Hire a licensed structural engineer — not a contractor — for an independent foundation assessment.
Homeowners
U.S.
mold remediation scam
A company performs a mold inspection and fabricates or exaggerates results to sell expensive and unnecessary mold removal services.
Use a company that only does testing, not remediation — to avoid a conflict of interest.
Homeowners
U.S.
contractor permit fraud
A contractor skips required building permits to save money and speed up work, leaving the homeowner liable for code violations and potentially unsafe work.
Check with your local building department about what work requires permits before hiring any contractor.
Homeowners
U.S.
contractor material upcharge scam
A contractor inflates the cost of materials far above retail price, uses cheaper materials than specified, or charges for materials never purchased.
Require an itemized materials list in the contract specifying brand, model, and unit cost.
Homeowners
U.S.
disaster repair advance fee scam
After a natural disaster, a contractor demands a large advance payment for emergency repairs and then performs little or no work.
Check your state's limits on contractor advance payments — many states cap deposits at one-third of the total contract.
Homeowners
U.S.
fake FEMA aid application scam
Scammers impersonate FEMA agents or create fake FEMA application websites after natural disasters, stealing personal information and diverting disaster relief funds from real victims.
Apply for FEMA assistance only at disasterassistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362 — FEMA never charges fees.
Disaster victims
U.S.
storm chaser contractor scam
Unlicensed contractors travel to disaster-affected areas, demand large upfront payments for emergency repairs, then perform shoddy work or disappear without completing the job.
Verify any contractor's license, insurance, and references through your state's contractor licensing board before signing anything.
Homeowners
U.S.
fake insurance adjuster scam
Scammers pose as insurance adjusters after disasters, requesting personal and policy information from homeowners, then filing fraudulent claims or stealing identity data.
Contact your insurance company directly to confirm any adjuster visit, and ask for the adjuster's license number to verify with your state insurance department.
Homeowners
U.S.
emergency supply price gouging scam
Sellers dramatically inflate prices on essential supplies like water, generators, fuel, and building materials in disaster-affected areas, exploiting victims' desperate need.
Document the inflated prices with photos and receipts and report to your state attorney general, as price gouging is illegal in most states during declared emergencies.
Disaster victims
U.S.
disaster loan advance fee scam
Scammers pose as SBA disaster loan agents or private lenders, promising fast approval for disaster relief loans in exchange for upfront application fees that are never refunded.
Apply for SBA disaster loans only at sba.gov/disaster or by visiting a local SBA disaster center — the SBA never charges application fees.
Small business owners
U.S.
fake utility restoration scam
Scammers impersonate utility companies after disasters, calling or texting residents to demand payment for expedited power, water, or gas restoration that would otherwise happen through normal recovery operations.
Utility companies never charge fees to prioritize restoration — call your utility directly using the number on your bill to verify any communication.
Homeowners
U.S.
military benefits fraud scam
Scammers contact veterans or active-duty personnel claiming to help them access unclaimed military benefits, then steal personal information or charge fraudulent processing fees.
Access all military benefits directly through VA.gov or your local VA office — never through a third party.
Veterans
U.S.
VA loan scam
Scammers pose as VA-approved lenders offering exclusive mortgage deals to veterans, then collect application fees and personal financial information without providing any actual loan.
Verify any VA lender through the VA's official lender search at va.gov before providing information.
Veterans
U.S.
Travel booking message hijack scam
A traveler receives a realistic property or booking message that requests off-platform payment, identity verification, or a new deposit.
Keep all communication and payment inside the booking platform.
Travelers
Europe
Vacation rental clone site scam
A scam site copies a legitimate property listing and captures direct payment outside the real booking platform.
Cross-check the property on the official platform before paying.
Vacation renters
Global
Vacation rental key deposit scam
A traveler is told a last-minute key release or cleaning deposit must be paid separately before check-in, outside the booking platform.
Treat off-platform check-in payments as suspicious until the provider confirms them inside the official system.
Families
Global
fake vacation rental scam
Scammers post fake vacation rental listings using photos stolen from legitimate properties, collect full payment or deposits, then leave travelers with no accommodation upon arrival.
Book and pay only through the official platform (Airbnb, Vrbo) and never send money outside the platform.
Travelers
U.S.
rental car bait-and-switch scam
Third-party booking sites advertise rental cars at prices far below market, then add hidden fees at pickup or provide a lower-class vehicle while charging for the reserved one.
Book rental cars directly from established companies (Hertz, Enterprise, Avis) or through well-known platforms like Kayak or Google Flights.
Travelers
U.S.
Amazon brushing package scam
You receive unsolicited packages from Amazon that you never ordered — a sign that a seller is using your address to post fake verified reviews and inflate their product ratings.
Report the unsolicited packages to Amazon customer service and check your account for unauthorized access.
Online shoppers
U.S.
Craigslist cashier's check overpayment scam
A buyer sends a cashier's check for more than the asking price and asks the seller to wire back the difference, but the check is fraudulent and bounces after the seller sends real money.
Never accept payment for more than the agreed price — this is the hallmark of an overpayment scam.
Online sellers
U.S.
Craigslist job posting advance fee scam
Fake job postings on Craigslist require applicants to pay for training, background checks, or equipment before starting, then the job turns out to not exist.
Never pay money to start a job — legitimate employers cover the cost of training and background checks.
Job seekers
U.S.
Craigslist ticket resale scam
Scammers sell fake or duplicate concert, sports, or event tickets on Craigslist, leaving buyers unable to enter the venue.
Buy resale tickets only through verified platforms like Ticketmaster, StubHub, or SeatGeek that offer buyer guarantees.
Concert-goers
U.S.
Craigslist moving service bait-and-switch scam
A moving company on Craigslist offers a low quote, then holds belongings hostage on the truck and demands a much higher payment on moving day.
Only hire movers with a valid USDOT number (verify at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov) and positive reviews on multiple platforms.
Renters
U.S.
Craigslist pet sale deposit scam
Scammers post listings for puppies or kittens on Craigslist, collect a deposit for the animal, and then disappear without delivering the pet.
Always meet the pet and the seller in person before paying anything.
Pet buyers
U.S.
Craigslist electronics too-good-to-be-true price scam
Listings for popular electronics like iPhones, gaming consoles, or laptops at far below retail price turn out to be stolen goods, counterfeits, or nonexistent items.
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is — research fair market prices before buying.
Bargain hunters
U.S.
Craigslist romance through personal ads scam
Scammers use Craigslist personal ads or community sections to initiate fake romantic relationships, eventually requesting money for emergencies, travel, or medical bills.
Never send money to someone you have not met in person, regardless of how strong the emotional connection feels.
Older adults
U.S.
Craigslist fake buyer shipping label scam
A buyer offers to send a prepaid shipping label for a Craigslist item, but the label is fraudulent or routes the package to the wrong address, leaving the seller without the item or payment.
For Craigslist, prefer local cash transactions — if you must ship, create and pay for the label yourself.
Online sellers
U.S.
Airbnb early check-in fee scam
Hosts charge guests an additional off-platform fee for early check-in that was not part of the original listing agreement, taking advantage of travel fatigue and urgency.
Get any early check-in agreements in writing through Airbnb's messaging system before booking — this creates a documented record.
Travelers
U.S.
Airbnb experience host scam
Fake or misleading Airbnb Experiences are listed by scam hosts who collect payment for tours, classes, or activities that either do not happen or are drastically different from what was advertised.
Book Experiences with hosts who have multiple verified reviews and a track record on the platform.
Tourists
U.S.
Amazon delivery driver impersonator scam
Scammers pose as Amazon delivery drivers, approaching homes to steal packages, gather personal information, or gain access to residences under the pretense of delivering or verifying an order.
Amazon drivers never ask for payment at the door or request personal identification to complete a delivery.
Homeowners
U.S.
USPS undeliverable mail notification scam
Fake emails or letters claim that important mail could not be delivered and direct recipients to a phishing website to schedule redelivery by entering personal information.
USPS leaves physical delivery attempt notices (PS Form 3849) in your mailbox — they do not send email notifications about undeliverable regular mail.
General consumers
U.S.
UPS failed delivery attempt notice scam
A door tag, email, or text claims UPS attempted delivery and failed, asking you to call a fake number or visit a fake site to reschedule — leading to a phone scam or phishing page.
Verify any delivery attempt by entering the InfoNotice number at ups.com or calling 1-800-742-5877.
Homeowners
U.S.
UPS driver impersonation scam
A person wearing a UPS-like uniform arrives at a home or business claiming a COD payment is required, additional fees are owed, or requesting a signature on a device that captures personal information.
Verify any COD shipment by calling UPS at 1-800-742-5877 before making any payment.
Homeowners
U.S.
FedEx failed delivery voicemail scam
An automated voicemail claims FedEx attempted delivery and instructs you to press a number or call back a fake number, connecting you to a scammer who extracts personal and payment information.
Do not call back numbers from suspicious voicemails — use the official FedEx number 1-800-463-3339.
Seniors
U.S.
timeshare cancellation fee scam
Scammers posing as law firms or title companies charge large fees claiming they can legally cancel a timeshare, but provide no legitimate legal service.
Verify any attorney's license through their state bar association's online directory.
Timeshare owners
U.S.
vacation rental timeshare conversion scam
A company promises to convert a timeshare into a vacation rental property that will generate income, but the conversion is a fiction and fees are pocketed.
Verify that any rental management company is a licensed real estate broker in the state where the timeshare property is located.
Timeshare owners
U.S.
reverse mortgage pitch scam
Fraudulent advisors pressure seniors into taking out reverse mortgages with hidden fees and unfavorable terms, sometimes redirecting loan proceeds to themselves.
Only work with FHA-approved reverse mortgage lenders and always attend HUD-required counseling before signing.
Seniors
U.S.
home security pushy sales scam targeting seniors
Aggressive door-to-door salespeople pressure seniors into signing long-term home security contracts with hidden fees, equipment charges, and difficult cancellation terms.
Never sign a contract at the door — take the materials, read everything, and consult family or a lawyer first.
Seniors
U.S.
reverse mortgage scam targeting elderly
Scammers or unscrupulous lenders push elderly homeowners into unfavorable reverse mortgage products, often using deceptive terms to strip home equity.
Consult a HUD-approved housing counselor before signing any reverse mortgage agreement.
Seniors
U.S.
inheritance advance scam targeting elderly
Scammers contact elderly individuals claiming they are entitled to a large inheritance or unclaimed estate, but must pay upfront fees for taxes, legal costs, or processing.
Never pay upfront fees to receive an inheritance — legitimate estates do not require beneficiaries to pay processing costs out of pocket.
Seniors
U.S.
Porch pickup gift card scam
A buyer claims a relative will pick up the item and asks the seller to include gift cards or cash for reimbursement.
Keep local sales simple and refuse add-on financial errands.
Casual sellers
Global
rideshare vehicle rental scam
A scammer offers to rent a vehicle to aspiring rideshare drivers at inflated rates with predatory terms, often using a car that does not meet platform safety requirements.
Use official rideshare rental programs like Uber's vehicle marketplace or Hertz partnership instead of private listings.
Rideshare users
U.S.
Uber rental car bait-and-switch scam
Drivers using Uber Rent or third-party rental vehicles swap confirmed car details at the last minute, arriving in a different vehicle and sometimes charging additional fees off-platform.
Never get into a vehicle that does not match the details in your Uber app — make, model, color, and license plate must all match.
Uber riders
U.S.
real estate listing QR code scam
Fraudulent QR codes on real estate signs or flyers redirect prospective buyers and renters to fake listing sites that collect personal information and application fees for properties the scammer does not own.
Verify property listings through official platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, or your local MLS.
Home buyers
U.S.
Puppy rehoming deposit scam
A buyer sees a believable pet listing and is asked to send a deposit for transport, paperwork, or holding the animal before any verified handoff exists.
Never pay for a pet you cannot verify in person or through a legitimate adoption organization.
Families
Global
home warranty scam
A telemarketer sells a home warranty that charges premiums but routinely denies claims, has extensive hidden exclusions, or disappears when service is needed.
Research the company's complaint history on the BBB and your state attorney general's website.
Homeowners
U.S.
flood insurance scam
After a natural disaster, scammers pose as FEMA or NFIP representatives and sell fake flood insurance policies or charge fees for free disaster assistance.
FEMA does not charge for disaster assistance — any request for payment is a scam.
Homeowners
U.S.
disaster insurance upsell scam
After a natural disaster, scammers approach homeowners with high-pressure sales for overpriced or unnecessary supplemental insurance coverage.
Contact your existing insurer before purchasing any supplemental disaster coverage.
Homeowners
U.S.
fake rent relief program scam
Scammers create fake rent assistance programs with professional-looking websites, collecting application fees and personal data from tenants struggling to pay rent.
Apply for rent assistance only through official government channels at your state or county housing authority.
Renters
U.S.
mortgage forbearance extension scam
Scammers contact homeowners offering to extend mortgage forbearance programs or modify loans for a fee, collecting personal financial data and payment while providing no actual assistance.
Contact your mortgage servicer directly to discuss forbearance or modification options — they are required to help you for free.
Homeowners
U.S.
magazine subscription scam
Callers claim to represent a publisher and sign victims up for magazine subscriptions they never ordered, then send aggressive collection notices.
Never provide payment information to unsolicited callers.
Older adults
U.S.
title washing auto scam
A salvage or flood-damaged vehicle's title is laundered through states with lax title laws to remove the salvage brand, then resold as clean.
Always run a vehicle history report through the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System at vehiclehistory.bja.ojp.gov.
Car buyers
U.S.
odometer rollback fraud
The odometer reading is tampered with to show fewer miles, making the vehicle appear less used and worth more than its actual value.
Compare the odometer reading against the vehicle history report, which records mileage at each title transfer and inspection.
Car buyers
U.S.
curbstoner unlicensed dealer scam
An unlicensed dealer poses as a private seller to flip vehicles without disclosing known defects, avoiding dealer regulations and consumer protections.
Verify the seller's name matches the name on the vehicle title.
Car buyers
U.S.
lemon laundering scam
A vehicle that was bought back by the manufacturer under a state lemon law is resold without disclosing its defect history.
Run a full vehicle history report and look specifically for manufacturer buyback or lemon law records.
Car buyers
U.S.
phantom vehicle listing scam
A completely fabricated vehicle listing uses stolen photos and descriptions to collect deposits from buyers for a car that does not exist.
Reverse-search listing photos before contacting the seller.
Car buyers
U.S.
VIN cloning fraud
A stolen vehicle is given the VIN plate from a legally registered vehicle of the same make and model to pass title checks.
Compare the VIN on the dashboard, door jamb, and engine block — all should match exactly.
Car buyers
U.S.
Craigslist car sale escrow scam
A car listed on Craigslist is offered at a great price with the seller suggesting a fake escrow service to handle the transaction, stealing the buyer's payment.
Never buy a vehicle sight-unseen, no matter how good the deal seems — insist on seeing it in person.
Car buyers
U.S.
fake HOA fee notice scam
Homeowners receive official-looking letters or emails demanding immediate HOA dues payment to a fraudulent account, often mimicking their real association's branding.
Always verify payment changes by calling your HOA management company directly using the number on your original contract.
Homeowners
U.S.
fake property management company scam
Scammers pose as a new property management company claiming to have taken over HOA duties, redirecting all resident payments to fraudulent accounts.
Contact your HOA board members directly to confirm any management changes before sending payment.
Homeowners
U.S.
fake HOA maintenance vendor scam
Scammers pose as maintenance vendors approved by the HOA, collecting upfront payment from homeowners for landscaping, painting, or repairs that never get completed.
Verify any vendor by checking with your HOA board or management company before paying.
Homeowners
U.S.
HOA board embezzlement scam
A corrupt HOA board member or treasurer diverts association funds into personal accounts, often through inflated vendor contracts or fictitious expenses.
Request annual independent financial audits and attend board meetings to review financial reports.
HOA members
U.S.
condo presale deposit scam
Scammers advertise presale units in condo developments that are either nonexistent or not affiliated with the real developer, collecting reservation deposits that vanish.
Verify the developer's identity through your city's building permit office and state real estate commission.
Property buyers
U.S.
fake HOA lien notice scam
Homeowners receive fraudulent lien notices claiming unpaid HOA dues will result in a lien on their property, demanding immediate payment to a fraudulent entity.
Contact your HOA directly to confirm whether any balance is owed on your account.
Homeowners
U.S.
amenity access fee scam
Scammers contact residents claiming they must pay a separate fee to access community amenities like pools, gyms, or clubhouses, collecting payments for access that is already included in HOA dues.
Check your HOA governing documents to confirm what amenities are included in your dues.
Homeowners
U.S.
fake HOA election scam
Scammers send fraudulent proxy ballots or online voting links to HOA members, harvesting personal information or manipulating board election outcomes.
Verify election communications by contacting your HOA board or management company directly.
HOA members
U.S.
HOA insurance fraud scam
Scammers pose as insurance agents claiming the HOA's master policy has lapsed, pressuring homeowners to purchase individual coverage through a fraudulent insurer.
Contact your HOA board to verify the status of the master insurance policy.
Homeowners
U.S.
Marketplace rental deposit scam
A fake landlord advertises a good rental deal on a marketplace and pushes for a deposit before any real viewing or lease.
Never send a rental deposit before a verified viewing and lease.
Renters
Global
fake Zillow listing rental scam
Scammers copy real property listings from Zillow and repost them at below-market rent, then collect deposits from multiple victims for a property they do not own.
Reverse image search listing photos to check if they appear on other sites.
Renters
U.S.
Craigslist apartment rental scam
A listing on Craigslist advertises an apartment at a great price, but the poster does not own or have authority to rent the property.
Always view the property in person before sending any money.
Renters
U.S.
vacation rental clone scam
Scammers clone legitimate vacation rental listings from Airbnb or Vrbo and offer them on third-party sites, collecting payment for properties they do not control.
Book and pay only through official platforms that offer payment protection.
Travelers
U.S.
roommate scam
A person posing as a prospective roommate sends a check for more than the agreed amount and asks the victim to wire back the difference before the check bounces.
Never accept a check for more than the agreed amount from a stranger.
Students
U.S.
rental deposit wire fraud scam
A supposed landlord insists that the security deposit and first month's rent be wired before move-in, then disappears after receiving the funds.
Never wire money to a landlord you have not met — wire transfers cannot be reversed.
Relocating workers
U.S.
sight-unseen rental scam
A scammer targets people relocating to a new city by offering a rental that cannot be viewed in person, then collecting payment for a property that is not available.
Ask a trusted local contact to visit the property on your behalf or arrange a live video walkthrough.
Relocating workers
U.S.
fake landlord scam
A person poses as the landlord of a property they do not own, showing it to prospective tenants and collecting deposits before the real owner discovers the scheme.
Verify the landlord's identity by checking property ownership records at the county assessor's office.
Renters
U.S.
sublease scam
A current tenant subleases an apartment without the landlord's permission, collecting rent from the new occupant who is then evicted when the fraud is discovered.
Demand written proof that the landlord has approved the sublease arrangement.
Students
U.S.
short-term rental scam
A listing for a short-term rental — often targeting business travelers — takes payment but the property does not exist or is not as described upon arrival.
Book through established platforms that hold payment until check-in is verified.
Business travelers
U.S.
housing list fee scam
A service charges a fee for access to rental listings that are freely available on public sites, outdated, or already rented.
Search free listing sites first — most legitimate rentals are listed publicly.
Renters
U.S.
Zelle rental deposit scam
A fake landlord lists an apartment at below-market rent and demands a Zelle deposit to hold the unit — once paid, the 'landlord' disappears and the listing turns out to be stolen from a legitimate property.
Never send a rental deposit via Zelle or any peer-to-peer app without first seeing the property in person and verifying the landlord's identity.
Renters
U.S.
Craigslist fake rental listing scam
Scammers post fake rental listings using photos stolen from legitimate real estate sites, collecting deposits and first month's rent from multiple victims for properties they do not own.
Never send money for a rental you have not physically visited — verify the property exists and the 'landlord' owns it.
Renters
U.S.
Airbnb off-platform payment request scam
Hosts convince guests to pay outside the Airbnb platform to avoid service fees, leaving travelers with no payment protection and often no actual reservation.
Never pay for an Airbnb stay outside the Airbnb platform — the platform's payment system includes guest protection and dispute resolution.
Travelers
U.S.
Airbnb fake listing photos scam
Scammers use stolen or heavily edited photos to advertise properties on Airbnb that either do not exist, are significantly different from what is shown, or belong to someone else.
Use reverse image search on listing photos to check if they appear elsewhere online.
Travelers
U.S.
Airbnb bait-and-switch property scam
Guests book an appealing property on Airbnb but upon arrival, the host claims an issue and moves them to a significantly inferior property with no refund option.
Contact Airbnb support immediately if a host tries to relocate you — do not accept a switch without Airbnb's involvement.
Travelers
U.S.
Airbnb fake host identity scam
Scammers create Airbnb host accounts using stolen identities and list properties they do not own or control, collecting payments that disappear before check-in.
Book with Superhosts or hosts with extensive verified review histories whenever possible.
Travelers
U.S.
Airbnb hidden camera privacy scam
Some Airbnb hosts install hidden cameras in their properties to record guests in private spaces, violating privacy laws and potentially using footage for extortion or voyeurism.
Scan the property upon arrival — check for unusual objects with tiny holes, use your phone camera to detect infrared lights, and scan the Wi-Fi network for unknown devices.
Travelers
U.S.
Airbnb damage claim extortion scam
Hosts file fraudulent damage claims against guests after checkout, submitting fake or pre-existing damage photos to collect repair fees through Airbnb's resolution center.
Photograph the entire property at check-in and check-out to have timestamped evidence of its condition.
Travelers
U.S.
Airbnb last-minute cancellation scam
Hosts cancel confirmed bookings at the last minute when they find they can charge a higher price to another guest, leaving the original traveler stranded without accommodation.
Report the cancellation to Airbnb and request rebooking assistance — Airbnb's AirCover may help find comparable accommodation.
Travelers
U.S.
Zillow fake listing contact form scam
Scammers create fake property listings on Zillow with below-market prices and use the contact form to redirect interested renters or buyers to off-platform communication where they extract deposits or personal information.
Never send money for a rental without touring the property in person and verifying the landlord's identity.
Renters
U.S.
Zillow rental application fee scam
A fake landlord on Zillow charges non-refundable application fees for a property they do not own, collecting fees from multiple applicants for the same listing.
Verify property ownership through your county's property assessor website before paying any fees.
Renters
U.S.
Zillow fake property management scam
Scammers pose as property management companies on Zillow listings, collecting rent payments and security deposits for properties they have no authority to lease.
Verify the property management company through the property owner or county assessor records.
Renters
U.S.
campus apartment deposit scam
Scammers list fake apartments near college campuses at below-market rates and collect security deposits and first-month rent from multiple students for properties they do not own.
Never send money for a rental you have not physically visited or verified through the property management company.
College students
U.S.
deepfake real estate agent scam
Scammers use AI deepfake video to impersonate a real estate agent or property owner on video calls, redirecting earnest money deposits or rental payments to fraudulent accounts.
Always verify wire instructions by calling the title company or real estate brokerage at their publicly listed phone number.
Home buyers
U.S.
closing wire instruction hijack scam
Hackers intercept or spoof emails between homebuyers and title companies, sending fraudulent wire instructions that redirect the closing funds to a criminal's account.
Always verify wire instructions by calling the title company at a phone number from their official website — never from the email itself.
Homebuyers
U.S.
title company impersonation scam
Scammers create fake email addresses and websites that closely mimic a real title company, sending buyers fraudulent closing documents and wire instructions.
Verify the sender's exact email domain character by character before acting on any wire instructions.
Homebuyers
U.S.
down payment redirect scam
A fraudulent email intercepted during a real estate transaction redirects the buyer's down payment to a criminal's account by providing altered wiring details.
Never wire money based solely on email instructions — always confirm by phone using a known, verified number.
Homebuyers
U.S.
earnest money theft scam
Scammers intercept real estate communications and send fake instructions for the earnest money deposit early in the transaction, stealing funds before closing even begins.
Verify earnest money instructions directly with your real estate agent and the escrow company by phone.
Homebuyers
U.S.
real estate agent email compromise scam
Hackers breach a real estate agent's email account and use it to send fraudulent wire instructions to the agent's active clients, leveraging the trusted relationship.
Always verify financial instructions through a separate communication channel — call your agent on their known phone number.
Homebuyers
U.S.
escrow account phishing scam
Scammers send phishing emails disguised as escrow account login pages, capturing credentials that allow them to redirect funds or steal transaction information.
Never click login links in emails — navigate directly to the escrow company's website by typing the URL.
Homebuyers
U.S.
mortgage payoff redirect scam
Scammers intercept mortgage payoff communications and redirect the final payment to a fraudulent account, stealing the homeowner's entire remaining mortgage balance.
Verify mortgage payoff wire instructions by calling the lender directly at the number on your mortgage statement.
Homebuyers
U.S.
property tax payment redirect scam
Scammers send fake property tax notices directing homeowners to pay overdue or delinquent taxes to a fraudulent account, often threatening liens or penalties for non-payment.
Verify any tax notice by contacting your county tax assessor's office directly using the number from their official website.
Homebuyers
U.S.
HOA fee redirect scam
Scammers impersonate a homeowners association and send emails with updated payment instructions, redirecting HOA dues to a criminal's account.
Verify any payment change by contacting your HOA management company or board president directly by phone.
Homebuyers
U.S.
real estate attorney impersonation scam
Scammers impersonate the buyer's or seller's real estate attorney, sending fraudulent wire instructions for closing funds from an email that closely resembles the attorney's real address.
Verify all wire instructions by calling your attorney at the number on their business card or official website.
Homebuyers
U.S.
Zillow Offers impersonator scam
Scammers impersonate the discontinued Zillow Offers program, contacting homeowners with unsolicited purchase offers and requesting personal financial details or upfront fees to proceed.
Be aware that Zillow Offers was shut down in November 2021 — any offer claiming to be from this program is fraudulent.
Homeowners
U.S.
Zillow fake open house RSVP scam
A phishing email or listing promotes a fake open house event for an attractive property, collecting personal information through a fraudulent RSVP form.
Verify open houses directly with the listing agent by calling the number on their brokerage website.
Homebuyers
U.S.
Zillow Zestimate manipulation scam
Scammers claim they can artificially inflate a home's Zestimate value on Zillow for a fee, which is impossible since Zestimates are algorithmically generated and cannot be manually altered.
Understand that Zestimates are algorithmically generated and cannot be manually inflated by third parties.
Homeowners
U.S.
cashier's check fraud
Scammers produce convincing counterfeit cashier's checks that initially pass bank verification but are later returned as fraudulent.
Call the issuing bank directly using a number from their official website to verify any cashier's check.
Sellers
U.S.
counterfeit money order scam
Fraudsters create fake money orders that closely resemble genuine USPS or Western Union instruments but are ultimately worthless.
Verify money orders by calling the issuer directly — USPS at 1-866-459-7822 for postal money orders.
Sellers
U.S.
rental deposit check scam
A fake landlord sends a check for more than the deposit, then asks the prospective tenant to wire back the excess before the check bounces.
Never accept a check for more than the agreed amount in any rental transaction.
Renters
U.S.
appliance warranty extension scam
Scammers call or email homeowners claiming their appliance warranties are expiring and offering costly extended coverage that provides little to no actual protection.
Verify your actual warranty status by contacting the appliance manufacturer directly using the number in your owner manual
Homeowners
U.S.
home warranty upsell scam
Telemarketers aggressively sell overpriced home warranty plans to new homeowners, promising comprehensive coverage that is riddled with exclusions and denial triggers.
Research any home warranty company thoroughly on BBB, state insurance department records, and consumer review sites before purchasing
Homeowners
U.S.
third-party warranty scam
Unaffiliated third-party companies sell vehicle or home service contracts with misleading mailers designed to look like official manufacturer notices.
Read the fine print on any warranty mailer carefully to determine if it is from your actual manufacturer
Car owners
U.S.
warranty renewal auto-charge scam
Companies enroll consumers in recurring warranty plans with hidden auto-renewal clauses, making it extremely difficult to cancel and continuing to charge credit cards after the coverage period.
Read all warranty contract terms for auto-renewal clauses before providing payment information
Car owners
U.S.
parental control app scam
Fake parental control apps advertised to concerned parents actually contain spyware that monitors the parent's device instead, stealing banking credentials and personal data.
Only install parental control apps from established developers available in the official app stores, such as Bark, Qustodio, or Google Family Link.
Parents
U.S.
real estate investment club scam
Fraudulent real estate investment clubs collect member funds for supposed property deals that never materialize, using new member contributions to pay returns to earlier members.
Verify any real estate investment through independent title searches and property records
Investors
U.S.
Energy and utility MLM scheme
An energy company uses MLM recruitment to sell electricity or gas plans, with agents earning more from signing up new agents than from providing competitive energy rates.
Compare the offered rate, including all fees, to your current utility rate before switching.
Homeowners
U.S.
real estate closing wire fraud
Scammers intercept real estate transaction emails and send fake closing instructions with fraudulent wire transfer details, stealing down payments and closing funds.
Always verify wire instructions by calling the title company at a number from their official website, never from the email
Homebuyers
U.S.
merger and acquisition confidential BEC scam
Scammers impersonate executives or advisors involved in a pending deal, using the secrecy inherent in M&A transactions to authorize urgent, fraudulent wire transfers.
Verify all M&A-related payment requests through pre-established secure communication channels
CFOs
U.S.
fake parking pass scam
Scammers sell counterfeit parking passes for event venues, stadiums, and airports, leaving buyers with worthless passes and potential towing charges.
Purchase parking passes only through the venue official website or authorized parking operators
Sports fans
U.S.
real estate crowdfunding pig butchering scam
Scammers create fake real estate crowdfunding platforms with fabricated property portfolios, building trust through small dividend payments before locking out investors and stealing their capital.
Verify any crowdfunding platform's SEC registration at sec.gov/cgi-bin/browse-edgar.
Real estate enthusiasts
U.S.
porch pirate package theft scam
Thieves systematically follow delivery trucks or use tracking information from data breaches to steal packages from doorsteps during the peak holiday shipping season.
Use delivery lockers, require signature confirmation, or have packages delivered to a secure location like your workplace.
Online shoppers
U.S.
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