Carbondale Police Department warns of rental scams

KBSI FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CARBONDALE, Ill., (KBSI) — The Carbondale Police Department is warning residents about fraudulent apartment rental websites that attempt to steal personal information.

Police said scammers often use images from legitimate property listings and direct victims to fake websites. There, victims may be asked to provide personal identification, pay application or background check fees, or send money through unusual methods such as wire transfers, cryptocurrency or gift cards. Victims later discover the listings were fraudulent.

Officials noted that many legitimate property owners’ contracts with third-party services such as Zillow or Apartments.com to process applications and background checks.

The department advises anyone seeking housing to avoid websites that demand upfront fees or make offers that seem too good to be true. Residents are encouraged to visit properties in person before providing information, signing a lease or making payments.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Carbondale Police Department at 618-549-2121. Anonymous tips may also be submitted to the Carbondale/SIU Crime Stoppers tip line at 618-549-COPS (2677), the Murphysboro/Jackson County Crime Stoppers line at 618-687-COPS (2677). Cash rewards are available for information leading to an arrest.