The West Burlington Police Department is warning residents to be on the lookout for a rental scam after a community member recently lost money to a fraudulent online listing.
According to police, the scam involves a home located in West Burlington that is being advertised for rent on TikTok and other social media platforms. Investigators say the scammer is posing as a legitimate rental company and asks prospective renters to send application fees, security deposits, or rent payments to reserve the property before they have verified the listing.
Police are reminding anyone searching for a rental home to use caution and verify listings through reputable websites, such as Zillow, or by contacting a legitimate property management company directly. They also advise never sending money until you have confirmed the property is legitimate and, whenever possible, viewed it in person.
The West Burlington Police Department is encouraging residents to share the warning with friends and family in hopes of preventing others in the community from becoming victims of the scam. If you believe you have been targeted by a rental scam, contact your local law enforcement agency immediately.