Dayton, Ohio – The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a rise in rental-related scams targeting online home seekers.
According to the sheriff’s office, investigators report that victims are increasingly finding rental properties through platforms such as Facebook Marketplace before being contacted by individuals claiming to be property owners or managers.
Authorities say suspects allegedly provide lockbox codes so prospective renters can tour homes without anyone present. After the viewing, the suspect sends a rental agreement and instructs the victim to submit payment — typically for a security deposit or first month’s rent — through third-party money transfer apps such as Cash App, Bitcoin or other digital platforms.
In many cases, officials said, legitimate property owners or management companies only discover the scam after being contacted by confused applicants or noticing unauthorized access to the property. Phone numbers used by suspects are frequently fake, unreachable or quickly disconnected.
“These scams are becoming more sophisticated and convincing,” Sheriff Rob Streck said in a statement. He urged residents to verify property ownership before sending payment and to leave immediately if a situation feels unsafe.
The sheriff’s office advises renters to confirm ownership through official websites or county property records, avoid sending money via third-party apps without verification, meet landlords in person when possible, and be cautious of listings priced significantly below market value.
Residents who believe they were targeted are encouraged to contact local law enforcement and report fraudulent listings to the platform where they appeared. The alert is particularly relevant to students and young renters searching for housing online.
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