Rise in rental market fraud
In recent months, Spain has seen an increase in scams targeting people searching for housing. Fraudsters are actively using modern digital tools to create listings for non-existent apartments. Most often, these ads feature attractive prices and perfect photos, which are actually generated by artificial intelligence.
How the scam works
Prospective tenants, attracted by a tempting offer, get in touch with the so-called owner. After the first contact, the scammers suggest continuing the conversation via messaging apps, such as WhatsApp. Using the pretext of high demand, they ask for an advance payment and promise to reserve the apartment. Once the money is sent, the scammers stop responding and the ad disappears from the platform.
Safety recommendations
Experts advise not to transfer any money before inspecting the apartment in person and checking the owner’s documents. Avoid following suspicious links and completing deals outside of official platforms. If a landlord pressures you for immediate action, this is a red flag. It is recommended to look for information about the apartment on various websites to verify that it really exists. All negotiations should be carried out through secure services that offer additional guarantees. It is also important not to share your passwords or confirmation codes with third parties.
Impact of technology on the market
The spread of artificial intelligence has significantly complicated the detection of fake listings. New tools allow for the creation of realistic images that are difficult to distinguish from real ones. As a result, renters must exercise increased vigilance to avoid falling victim to fraudsters. Following simple safety rules helps reduce risks when searching for housing.
