🇨🇻 Rental Deposit Before Viewing or Contract

What is the rental deposit scam in Cape Verde?

In Cape Verde, a prevalent housing scam targets newcomers, including students, families, and remote workers. Scammers advertise attractive rental properties online, often using appealing images and low prices to entice potential tenants. They typically pressure newcomers to send a rental deposit before they have even viewed the property, claiming it is necessary to secure the lease. After the deposit is transferred, these scammers will vanish, leaving victims with no property and no recourse. Victims receive fake leases or property photos, making it difficult to distinguish the scam from legitimate offers.

How do I recognize this scam?

The fraudulent nature of these offers can be subtle at first glance. Scammers often create convincing listings that appear legitimate. However, they usually refuse to allow potential renters to view the property in person or via video call. This is a significant red flag, as legitimate landlords will typically encourage visits. If something seems off about the rental process, it is wise to proceed with caution. Many newcomers fall prey to these scams due to unfamiliarity with the local market.

Who is affected by these scams in Cape Verde?

Students, families, and remote workers are particularly vulnerable to rental deposit scams. These groups often require quick housing solutions and may not have the time or resources to thoroughly investigate rental offers. New arrivals to Cape Verde might not have local contacts or knowledge to help identify trustworthy landlords or rental agencies. This gap in awareness further increases their risk of falling victim to such fraudulent schemes.