Scam Spotlight: Fake Application Fees

A Wisconsin consumer recently reported to DATCP that they encountered a scammer who was impersonating a real landlord and asking for “application fees.” The scammer posted a fake rental listing on a popular housing website and included their own contact information instead of the real property owner’s information. When consumers contacted the scammer to inquire about renting the property, they were told they needed to submit an application, including a $60 per adult application fee, before they could tour the property.

Thankfully, this consumer avoided the scam by:

· Acknowledging the possibility they were talking to a scammer.

· Asking the “landlord” questions about the property, which they were unable to answer.

o These included information about utilities, appliances, available dates to tour the property, and the application fee.

· Requesting a phone call with the “landlord,” which they refused.

· Investigating through an internet search to confirm whether the offer was legitimate before sending money.

o Consumers can use resources like rental companies’ official websites, satellite map or street-view programs, municipal offices, property records, or DATCP and other consumer support organizations to double check if a landlord or other business is who they claim to be.

The consumer ultimately decided not to pay the bogus application fee and reported the scam attempt to DATCP. DATCP reached out to both the consumer and the real property owner to confirm an imposter scam had taken place and is attempting to identify the scammer who posted the listing. While the scammer has not yet been identified, the fraudulent listing was removed from the website. All consumers should stay vigilant of scams while they search for housing, take steps to verify if the landlord they are communicating with is legitimate. If they believe they have encountered a scam, report it to the listing platform and contact DATCP if they need further assistance.