Kauai police warn the public of online scam
An online Craigslist property scam is making the rounds in an attempt to steal and launder money from victims through gift cards or other transactions, warns the Kauai Police Department in a news release.
Recent incidents report scammers using pictures of properties from existing rental or real estate websites and claiming them as their own to rent on Craigslist. When individuals inquire about them, scammers ask for personal information or security deposits before showing the property to prospective tenants. This is known as a “Sight Unseen” property transaction. Scammers request money to be sent via wire transfer, Western Union, prepaid credit cards or gift cards. Once the prospective tenant sends a payment, communication stops.
“Renters or prospective home buyers are strongly encouraged to meet homeowners and rental or real estate companies in person when verifying property,” said Investigative Services Bureau Acting Capt. Kennison Nagahisa in the release. “Sight Unseen property transactions are highly discouraged, as verifying the property owner’s identity can be impossible.”
