How to Not get Scammed With Your Section 8
October 15, 2019
I’ve Been Scammed on a Housing Deal! What to do?
February 13, 2020
Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok have become popular places to find housing. Ads for apartments or homes often appear in your feed, claiming to offer great deals. But here’s the truth: many of these ads are scams designed to steal your money or personal information.
At Section 8 Shield, we want to help renters like you stay safe while searching for housing on social media.
Why Housing Ads on Social Media Are Risky
Social media platforms allow anyone to post ads, including scammers. These ads often look professional and legitimate, making it hard to tell what’s real and what’s fake. Scammers use fake accounts, stolen photos, and misleading claims to attract renters.
Examples of common housing scams on social media:
- Facebook Marketplace: Fake listings offering houses at low prices with no background checks.
- Instagram Posts: Luxury apartments with perfect photos and discounts if you “act fast.”
- TikTok Videos: Viral clips promoting cheap rentals with no follow-up details.
Carla R.
Renter in TexasHow Social Media Ads Work
Housing ads on social media often appear based on your search history or location. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram allow landlords and property managers to target specific audiences with their ads. While many are legitimate, scammers take advantage of this system.
Here’s how scams happen:
- Fake Listings: Scammers steal photos and details from real property listings, then repost them at lower prices to lure renters.
- Too-Good-to-Be-True Offers: Ads promise “no credit checks” or “move in today” deals to attract renters quickly.
- Pressure Tactics: Scammers claim other renters are interested and push you to send money immediately.
Tips to Stay Safe on Social Media
Avoiding scams doesn’t mean you should never use social media for housing—just take precautions. Here’s how to protect yourself:
1. Verify Listings
- Cross-check the listing with other rental platforms or public property records. Use tools like Section 8 Search or HUD’s PHA Locator.
2. Don’t Send Money Before Visiting
- Never pay a deposit or rent before seeing the property in person. Legitimate landlords will allow a walkthrough.
3. Look for Red Flags
- No background checks or credit requirements.
- Unusually low prices compared to other rentals in the area.
- Requests for payment via untraceable methods like gift cards or cryptocurrency.
4. Check the Account
- Look at the profile posting the ad. Fake accounts often have no personal photos, few followers, or accounts created recently.
Examples of Popular Scams on Social Media
Facebook Marketplace
- Scammers often create fake listings with stolen photos and claim to need a deposit quickly. They may use fake landlord profiles or pose as property managers.
Instagram Posts
- Ads for luxury apartments with “special discounts” are common. Scammers often rely on direct messages to pressure renters into making payments.
TikTok Housing Hacks
- Viral TikTok videos show “hacks” to get housing deals but rarely provide legitimate information. Be cautious of influencers promoting rental deals without clear sources.
What to Do If You Spot a Scam
- Report the Ad: Use the platform’s reporting feature to flag suspicious listings or accounts.
- Contact Authorities: Report housing scams to the FTC and your local housing authority.
- Warn Others: Share your experience with friends, family, or renter-focused websites like Section 8 Shield.
Conclusion: Be Careful on Social Media
While social media can be a convenient way to find housing, it’s also a playground for scammers. Always verify listings, avoid rushing into payments, and trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.
Lisa M.
Renter in Florida.At Section 8 Shield, we’re here to help renters navigate the risks of social media housing ads. Explore our website for more tips and tools to make renting safer. Together, we can protect renters from online scams!
