Marianna, FL – The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents today about a new real estate scam targeting potential renters in the Florida Panhandle. Authorities say criminals are duplicating legitimate “for sale” listings online and advertising them as rentals, putting unsuspecting victims at risk of financial loss.
According to a statement released Wednesday by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, the scam involves taking information and photos from actual home listings and reposting them on rental websites or social media platforms. Victims are then contacted by scammers posing as landlords, who ask for money or personal information before any property viewing or verification occurs.
Sheriff Donnie Edenfield urges the public not to exchange money or discuss lease agreements without first confirming the legitimacy of the listing. “Please verify the address with a licensed real estate agent or check for posted signage at the property in question,” the sheriff’s office advised. Law enforcement emphasized that residents should be cautious, especially if deals seem too good to be true or require immediate payment.
The sheriff’s office also provided a dedicated phone line for anyone who believes they may have fallen victim to this scam: 850-482-9624.
Local authorities say real estate scams have been on the rise across Florida this year, with online fraudsters increasingly targeting smaller communities. The sheriff’s office encourages residents to stay vigilant, ask questions, and report any suspicious rental activity immediately.
For more information or to report a scam, contact the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office or visit their official Facebook page.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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