How to Spot Rental and Newcomer Scams

Rental scams

• The price is much lower than similar places nearby.
• The “landlord” is out of the country and offers to mail you the keys.
• You're asked to send a deposit or e-Transfer before seeing the unit.
• The listing uses photos that appear elsewhere online, or the address doesn't match.
• You're pressured to decide immediately.

Fake government and CRA calls

Callers pretend to be from the CRA, Service Canada, the police or immigration, claiming you owe money or face arrest or deportation. They often demand payment by gift cards, cryptocurrency or wire transfer. Government agencies don't do this. If you're unsure, hang up and contact the agency through its official website.

Job offer scams

• A job offer arrives out of nowhere, or after a very short chat.
• You're asked to pay for training, equipment or a “processing fee.”
• You're sent a cheque and asked to send part of it back.
• The work is described as easy money with little detail.

Protect yourself

1. 1

   Step 1: Slow down

   Scammers rely on urgency. A real landlord, employer or agency will still be there tomorrow.

2. 2

   Step 2: Verify independently

   Look up the organization's phone number yourself instead of using the one you were given.

3. 3

   Step 3: Keep your information close

   Don't share your SIN, banking passwords or one-time codes with anyone who contacts you first.

4. 4

   Step 4: Use safer payment methods

   Be cautious of any request to pay by gift card, cryptocurrency or wire transfer.