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July 6, 2010

Maine AG warns of Internet rental scam

By David Hench dhench@mainetoday.com
Staff Writer

Maine's attorney general is warning people about the latest scam emanating from Nigeria.

A homeowner discovered his house being listed for rent on Craigslist complete with photos, even though he had no intention of renting it.

The ad listed a Nigerian e-mail for inquiries and payment for the fake rental, according to Kate Simmons, spokeswoman for Attorney General Janet Mills.

A woman was about to rent the home and send money to Nigeria but somehow was able to contact the real homeowner and discovered the fraud.

The owner was listing the home for sale and the scammer most likely took the photos and information off that site and created a fake rental ad, she said.

People interested in renting property through Internet postings should contact the owner by telephone, said Simmons.

"If they aren't able to talk to you on the phone, be very wary of that," Simmons said.

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