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🇸🇨 Rental Deposit Before Viewing or Contract

MediumHousing FraudPublisher: MigrantIQ Safety3 min read6 reported cases

Editorially reviewedLast updated 2026-10-04Reviewed by MigrantIQ Editorial TeamOfficial reporting channel ↗

How this scam works

What is the Rental Deposit Scam in Seychelles?

In Seychelles, a common housing fraud targets newcomers, including students, families, and remote workers. Scammers post fake apartment listings online, often featuring attractive photos and low rental prices. They entice potential renters by claiming high demand for properties and pressure them to pay a deposit before they even see the apartment. Once the deposit is sent, the scammer disappears, leaving the victim without a place to stay and out of pocket.

How Do Scammers Operate?

These fraudulent listings may appear on popular rental websites or social media platforms. Scammers often create a sense of urgency, insisting that the property will be rented quickly unless a deposit is sent immediately. They may send a fake lease agreement or copied images of a real property to bolster their credibility. Unfortunately, many newcomers fall victim to this scam, losing their hard-earned money and facing additional challenges in finding legitimate housing.

How Can You Protect Yourself from This Scam?

To avoid being scammed, you should remain vigilant when searching for rental properties in Seychelles. Always verify the legitimacy of the listing and the landlord.

What Should You Do If You Encounter This Scam?

If you suspect you have encountered this scam, report it to the Seychelles police or the local consumer protection agency for further assistance.

Red flags

Landlord refuses live video viewing or in-person viewing
Rent is significantly below normal market prices
Deposit must be wired before a signed contract is provided
Photos appear on multiple unrelated listings
Landlord pressures for quick payment without proper documentation

How to protect yourself

To protect yourself from rental deposit scams, use reputable rental platforms and verify the property address through independent sources. Always request a written contract and ensure that you see the property in person or via a live video call before making any payments. Avoid paying large deposits before confirming the landlord or agency is legitimate. Trust your instincts and be cautious, especially when rental prices seem too good to be true.

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 →

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.
Seychelles official reporting channels
Use official reporting channels if you were targeted or lost money.

Who is targeted

studentsfamiliesnew arrivalsremote workers

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Scam safety FAQ

Legitimate government fees are paid through official channels with receipts. Never wire cash to personal accounts for a “guaranteed” outcome.

Collect evidence (messages, contracts), then report through your destination country’s fraud or immigration reporting channels and warn your community.