Wiltshire Police is urging residents to be extra vigilant following a surge in rental scams in the Salisbury and Wilton area. Since the start of June, the police have received eight reports involving a man posing as a landlord, showing prospective tenants around properties he does not own. The scam unfolds when victims sign contracts and send deposits, only to discover that the supposed landlord vanishes without a trace.
Complex Fraud Manager Cheryl Hurren emphasized the seriousness of these incidents: “We are actively investigating these reports and taking them very seriously. With the rental market fiercely competitive, people may be tempted to take risks to secure a property. However, I urge caution—ensure what you’re seeing is 100% legitimate.”
2. Physical Verification: If securing accommodation from overseas, seek assistance from your employer, university, or a trusted contact to verify the property’s existence.
3. Visit the Property: Never pay without visiting the property with an agent or landlord.
4. Request Documentation: Ask for copies of tenancy agreements and safety certificates (e.g., Gas, Electricity, or HMO licenses).
5. Avoid Pressure: Be wary of pressure tactics. Don’t transfer Kent Police’s drive to prevent offenders profiting from their crimes continues with further confiscations. In separate hearings at Maidstone Crown Court, two men convicted of large scale drug supply offences have been ordered to give up their ill-gotten gains" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpil-monitor-id="29727">large sums without due diligence.
Remember: “My money? My info? I don’t think so.” If you encounter anything suspicious, call 999 in an emergency. For non-urgent reports, visit the Wiltshire Police’s ‘report fraud’ section. Additional advice is available from Action Fraud and the Take Five campaign.
