A Cork-based woman has launched a campaign to help students avoid accommodation scams in the upcoming academic year.
Executive Director of the Irish Council for International Students Laura Harmon said scammers are taking advantage of the shortage of accommodation and high price of rental properties.
Scammers use fake websites that look similar to usual housing sites like daft.ie or Airbnb.
Students are most at risk at falling for a scam, with many looking to secure last minute accommodation when the Leaving Cert results come out next week.
Speaking to RedFM, Ms Harmon said there are several red flags students need to watch out for.
“If the landlord's bank details look like they're from another country, if the person isn't willing to show you the property, if they're not giving you a written contract signed in the presence of another person,” she said.
“Also, if they’re putting pressure on you to pay money straightaway, or money in cash, that could be a red flag.”
Gardaí report there's been a 65% increase in rental scams in the last 4 years with around €2 million lost by hopeful renters.
