Boston Police Warn Of Rise In Apartment Rental Scams

In some cases, scammers request sensitive personal information, potentially putting victims at risk of identity theft.

By Benjamin Pierce, Patch Staff

Aug 11, 2026 8:29 AM EDT

BOSTON, MA — The police department is warning residents about a rise in apartment rental scams targeting people searching for housing throughout the city. The scams typically involve people posing as landlords or rental agents and posting fraudulent listings for properties that do not exist, have already been rented, or are copies of legitimate advertisements.

Police said scammers often pressure prospective renters to send money upfront for application fees, deposits, or first month's rent without allowing them to see the property. Requested payment methods frequently include wire transfers, gift cards, cryptocurrency, and peer-to-peer payment services such as Venmo or Cash App. In some cases, scammers also request sensitive personal information, potentially putting victims at risk of identity theft. Fraudulent listings have appeared on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and other legitimate rental websites.

Residents searching for apartments are advised to research rental companies or landlords by searching their names alongside terms such as "complaint," "review," or "scam." The Boston Police Department and Federal Trade Commission also recommend being wary of rental prices significantly below comparable listings, avoiding anyone who pressures prospective tenants to make quick decisions or payments, and visiting properties in person before sending money. Renters can also verify property ownership through the City of Boston's online tax assessment records.

Prospective renters are advised not to provide personal or financial information to unverified sources or make payments using cash, prepaid cards, wire transfers, peer-to-peer payment services, or cryptocurrency. Anyone who believes they have been scammed can file a report at their local Boston Police district station and report the fraudulent listing to the website where it appeared. Victims can also file reports with the Federal Trade Commission and the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.