The FBI's Boston office says rental scams are increasing in Rhode Island. Authorities say there were 42 victims in the Ocean State last year who lost nearly one-and-a-half-million dollars total.
“We have seen a significant increase in the amount of money being lost by people who are desperate for a good deal. Scammers are cashing in on renters who need to act quickly for fear of missing out, and it’s costing consumers thousands of dollars, and in some cases, leaving them stranded,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “We are asking everyone to exercise caution, especially over the next few months, as folks look to book last minute summer getaways.”
The FBI is also releasing data on those scams:
42 victims in Maine lost $489,309
290 victims in Massachusetts lost $8,944,041
41 victims in New Hampshire lost $2,576,210
42 victims in Rhode Island lost $1,414,709
The FBI says the scam increase has coincided with the surge in real estate prices. People looking to rent are being urged to exercise caution, especially over the next few months.
(Photo by STEFANI REYNOLDS/AFP via Getty Images)
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