Jefferson County officials warn residents about online rental scam targeting home seekers

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ill. (KBSI) — The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about an online rental scam circulating in the area.

Authorities said scammers are posting fake rental listings online and using stolen photos from real estate websites to make the properties appear legitimate. Victims are then asked to send deposits or fees before seeing the property.

Local real estate agent Jennifer Boyer shared several warning signs residents should watch for when reviewing rental listings. Officials said many fraudulent listings come from newly created or suspicious social media profiles with few photos, no local connections or names that do not appear to match the area.

The sheriff’s office also warned that scammers often list rental prices far below market value to create urgency and pressure potential renters into acting quickly.

In many cases, suspects ask people to communicate by text using phone numbers that may be from out of state and are not connected to legitimate businesses. Investigators said scammers frequently request payments through digital platforms such as Zelle, Cash App, Venmo, wire transfers, gift cards or cryptocurrency.

Officials said renters should never send deposits, application fees or rent without first seeing the property in person or working with a licensed local agent.

Anyone who believes they have been the victim of a rental scam is encouraged to contact their local law enforcement agency to file a report.