BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – The Better Business Bureau is warning people to be careful when searching for rental listings online as scammers post fake ads to trick victims and steal their money.
Scammers are targeting Jefferson County residents with a scheme that involves stealing photos of real homes and posting fake listings at bargain prices. A victim sends a deposit — sometimes first and last month’s rent — thinking they’ve locked in the deal. The money is gone and the home was never theirs.
Carl Bates, president of BBB Serving Central & South Alabama, said they are getting a call a month from someone who has fallen for this scam…