Furnished Finder is a trusted marketplace connecting travelers and landlords. While scams are uncommon, they can occur on any online platform.
This guide outlines common scam tactics, warning signs to watch for, and steps you can take to protect yourself.
Common Housing Scam Tactics
These are tactics seen across online rental marketplaces:
Fake or copied listings using stolen photos or property details
Requests for payment before verification or without a written agreement
Phishing emails or messages that imitate legitimate communication
Overpayment schemes, where someone sends too much money and asks for a refund
Identity misrepresentation, where someone poses as a landlord or renter
Understanding these patterns can help you recognize unusual activity early.
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious if someone:
Pressures you to act quickly or send money immediately
Asks to move communication off the platform right away
Refuses to provide basic details or documentation
Provides contact information that does not match their profile
Requests payment via wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency
Sends unfamiliar or suspicious links
If something feels unusual, pause and verify before moving forward.
How To Protect Yourself
For Travelers
Before sending payment:
Compare the listing price with similar properties in the area
Review all listing details and photos carefully
Confirm the contact information matches the listing
Do not send money without a written lease agreement
Use secure, traceable payment methods
During communication:
Keep conversations on Furnished Finder when possible
Request a video call or virtual tour if you cannot view the property in person
Be cautious of inconsistent details or unusual urgency
For Landlords
Before confirming a booking:
Review the traveler’s profile and inquiry carefully
Confirm the inquiry references your specific property
Be cautious of offers to send payment before lease terms are finalized
During communication:
Keep conversations within Furnished Finder's Messaging platform
Do not click on unfamiliar or suspicious links
Verify email addresses match profile details
Be cautious of overpayments or refund requests
For additional guidance, visit our blog for a landlord’s guide to spotting scams and protecting your property.
If You Suspect a Scam
Do not send money or share sensitive information
Stop communication
Do not accept or forward unexpected payments
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Submit a report by visiting Reporting a Listing, Landlord, or Traveler on Furnished Finder to Furnished Finder Support
If you are unable to locate the listing, please contact our Customer Support team.
We review every report so Furnished Finder can remain a trusted marketplace.