For many, the idea of looking for an apartment or home can be overwhelming. Between looking at online listings, researching potential cities, and touring units, this process can quickly grow tiring. However, when you find the perfect unit that meets your requirements, you may feel as though a weight has been lifted from your shoulders. After submitting the application and required deposit, you may be eager to move in. However, when you stop hearing from your new landlord, it can be devastating to discover that you may be the victim of rental identity theft. The following blog explores this scam in further detail, including how to spot potential fraud and the importance of working with a Michigan identity theft lawyer to explore your legal options if you have fallen victim to the schemes of a thief.
What Is Rental Identity Theft?
Rental identity theft is a scam used by thieves in which they pose as a landlord looking for a tenant. Generally, this entails posting a fake apartment or unit online and taking the information of those applying to use it for fraudulent purposes. When you apply for an apartment, you are required to provide a considerable amount of information, like your full name, date of birth, driver’s license number, previous addresses, and even your employment information. As such, the fake landlord can take this information and use it to open accounts in your name or package the details from various applicants to sell to other identity thieves.
In addition, they may go so far as to “approve” your application, thus requiring you to submit a deposit on the apartment that doesn’t exist. This allows them not only to obtain your identity but also your hard-earned money.
How Can I Protect Myself When Looking for Housing?
When searching online for apartments and other rental units, it’s important to understand how to tell whether or not a listing is legitimate. One of the most important things you can do is check to see if the listing has been copied. For example, if you see the same photos and description for multiple addresses and the only difference is the contact information, it is a sign that the listing could be fake.
Additionally, if the address listed is not legitimate or unverified, it can be a sign that the listing is fake. You can search to see if the address is associated with foreclosed properties or if the property management company does not have a valid address, you should proceed with caution as this could be a sign that the listing is fake.
Finally, when navigating this process, you should be wary of landlords who require payments to “hold” the unit before you’ve had a chance to sign a lease or tour the property. It’s critical to note that these are not legitimate practices real estate agents will engage in.
If you believe you are the victim of rental identity theft in Michigan, it’s crucial to contact an experienced identity theft attorney with Lyngklip & Associates. Looking for a place to live while also trying to reverse the impacts of identity theft can be too much to handle. As such, our firm can help you navigate the process of reclaiming your identity so you can move on from this chapter. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you during these complex times.
