TalkScams Team — educational discussion
Landlord refuses to show an apartment before requesting money — warning signs and safety checks
TalkScams Team discussion starter — an educational scam scenario, not a victim account.
What is the scam pattern?
Some fake listings are designed to collect a deposit before the renter sees the property. The FTC recommends viewing the home where possible and checking the ownership or management independently.
Warning signs to recognize
1. The landlord asks for payment but will not arrange a genuine inspection.
2. The supposed owner or agent has not been independently authenticated
How to check or protect yourself
1. Do not pay to secure a unit you cannot verify as available for rent.
2. Save listing and payment records and report deceptive rental adverts
Discuss with the community
How would you confirm the listing and the landlord’s authority before paying a deposit?
Original government advisory: https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2025/08/moving-summer-watch-rental-scams