--- title: Rental Deposit Before Viewing or Contract — Egypt Scam Alert description: Active scam alert: Rental Deposit Before Viewing or Contract is targeting immigrants in Egypt. How it works, red flags, and how to protect yourself. image: https://migrantiq.com/og/default.png --- Skip to content Ad spot · 728×90Advertise on MigrantIQBuy this spot [/advertise/?format=leaderboard] Egypt flag [/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fflagcdn.com%2Fw80%2Feg.png&w=3840&q=75] Scam alert RENTAL DEPOSIT BEFORE VIEWING OR CONTRACT ## What is the Rental Deposit Scam in Egypt? In Egypt, a common scam targets newcomers, particularly students, families, and remote workers seeking housing. Scammers often advertise fake apartments, pushing potential renters to pay a deposit before they have even viewed the property. These fraudulent listings typically Medium·3 min read·Egypt Official reporting channel [https://visa2egypt.gov.eg/]All Egypt alerts [/scam-alerts/egypt-arab-rep/] WHAT IS THE RENTAL DEPOSIT SCAM IN EGYPT? In Egypt, a common scam targets newcomers, particularly students, families, and remote workers seeking housing. Scammers often advertise fake apartments, pushing potential renters to pay a deposit before they have even viewed the property. These fraudulent listings typically include attractive photos and enticing rental prices that are significantly low Immigration rules and fees change frequently. Confirm current requirements on official government or embassy websites. Editorially reviewedLast updated 2026-10-04Reviewed by MigrantIQ Editorial TeamOfficial reporting channel ↗ [https://visa2egypt.gov.eg/] Recently verified HOW THIS SCAM WORKS WHAT IS THE RENTAL DEPOSIT SCAM IN EGYPT? In Egypt, a common scam targets newcomers, particularly students, families, and remote workers seeking housing. Scammers often advertise fake apartments, pushing potential renters to pay a deposit before they have even viewed the property. These fraudulent listings typically include attractive photos and enticing rental prices that are significantly lower than the market average. Once the deposit is sent, scammers vanish, leaving victims without a place to stay and out of pocket. HOW DOES THIS SCAM WORK? Scammers utilize online platforms and social media to promote their fake listings. They may send a lease agreement that looks legitimate or use copied images from other genuine listings. Victims are often pressured to act quickly, with claims that the property will not last long. This urgency is a tactic to minimize the time available for proper due diligence. HOW CAN YOU PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THIS SCAM? To avoid falling victim to this scam, you should conduct thorough research before making any payments. Always use reputable rental platforms and verify the property's address. If possible, arrange for an in-person viewing or a live video call with the landlord. Request a written contract and do not pay large deposits until you are certain of the landlord's legitimacy. Check local consumer protection agencies for guidance and support. RED FLAGS * Landlord refuses live video viewing or in-person viewing * Rent is significantly lower than comparable properties in the area * Deposit must be wired before a signed contract is provided * Photos are found on multiple unrelated listings * Landlord pressures for quick payment without proper documentation HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF To protect yourself from rental deposit scams in Egypt, always use reputable rental platforms and verify the property address through independent means. Arrange for a live video viewing or an in-person visit to inspect the property before making any payments. Request a written contract that outlines all terms clearly. Avoid paying large deposits before confirming the legitimacy of the landlord or agency. If something feels off, trust your instincts and seek alternatives. WHAT TO DO IF TARGETED * - Stop communication and do not send more money or documents * - Save messages, receipts, contracts, profile links, and phone numbers * - Contact your bank or payment provider if money was sent * - Report through official fraud, police, or immigration channels Official reporting channel → [https://visa2egypt.gov.eg/] PREVENTION TIPS * - Only pay government fees through official portals * - Do not trust guaranteed visa approvals or secret appointment slots * - Verify employer, school, agent, or landlord identities independently * - Avoid personal-account transfers and pressure tactics EMERGENCY & REPORTING CONTACTS If there is immediate danger, contact local emergency services. If money was sent, contact your bank/payment provider and official fraud reporting channels. SOURCES & REFERENCES * MigrantIQ scam alert record Published 2026-05-07. * Egypt official reporting channels [https://visa2egypt.gov.eg/] Use official reporting channels if you were targeted or lost money. WHO IS TARGETED studentsfamiliesnew arrivalsremote workers Feedback Was this guide helpful? Your answer helps us improve guides and update priority. YesNo Summarize this page with AI Opens your assistant with a pre-filled prompt (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude). Gemini uses Google AI Mode. Ask AI ↗ Not affiliated with any AI platform. Always verify immigration rules on official government sites. SCAM SAFETY FAQ SHOULD I PAY ANY FEE BEFORE MY VISA IS APPROVED? Legitimate government fees are paid through official channels with receipts. Never wire cash to personal accounts for a “guaranteed” outcome. HOW DO I REPORT A SUSPICIOUS OFFER? Collect evidence (messages, contracts), then report through your destination country’s fraud or immigration reporting channels and warn your community. 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Scammers often advertise fake apartments, pushing potential renters to pay a deposit before they have even viewed the property. These fraudulent listings typically include attractive photos and enticing rental prices that are significantly lower than the market average. Once the deposit is sent, scammers vanish, leaving victims without a place to stay and out of pocket.\n\n## How Does This Scam Work?\n\nScammers utilize online platforms and social media to promote their fake listings. They may send a lease agreement that looks legitimate or use copied images from other genuine listings. Victims are often pressured to act quickly, with claims that the property will not last long. This urgency is a tactic to minimize the time available for proper due diligence.\n\n## How Can You Protect Yourself from This Scam?\n\nTo avoid falling victim to this scam, you should conduct thorough research before making any payments. Always use reputable rental platforms and verify the property's address. 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