Four Red Flags
- Deposit/security deposit required before viewing
The strongest signal. Legitimate rentals always let you view the place, discuss terms, and only then pay. - Landlord 'is abroad' and can only communicate online
Often paired with 'have a locksmith let you in to view' or 'pay first, then I’ll send the keys'—a classic tactic. - Rent significantly below market rate
If it’s far cheaper than similar units in the same area, it’s usually bait to get you to commit quickly. - Only communicates via LINE, no formal contract
Without a written contract, claiming damages or filing a police report later becomes very difficult.
How to verify the person is really the landlord
- Check the owner name on the building registry extract
Apply for the building registry extract for that address from the land office, and check that the owner’s name matches the ID of the person claiming to be the landlord. This is the most direct step. - Sublessors must have written consent
Subletting requires the original landlord’s written consent. Saying 'I’m close with the landlord' doesn’t count—you need to see the document. - If using an agent, verify their license
Real estate brokerage firms and agents are registered; you can verify them with the Ministry of the Interior’s land administration authority. Don’t just trust a business card. - Use the Ministry of the Interior’s standard contract
Residential leases have official 'mandatory and prohibited terms.' Using the official version avoids hidden illegal clauses.
What to do if you’ve already sent money
- Contact your bank immediately
The sooner you report after transferring, the better the chance of stopping the funds before they’re withdrawn. - File a police report and keep all conversations
Save everything: LINE chats, transfer receipts, listing screenshots, and any ID photos the person provided. - Call 165 for advice
The anti-fraud hotline can help you assess the situation and guide next steps.
❓ FAQ
Is it reasonable for the landlord to ask for a deposit to reserve the place?
It’s reasonable only after you’ve viewed the property, agreed on terms, and signed a written contract (or at least received a written receipt stating the conditions). Being asked to transfer money before viewing should be treated as high-risk, no matter how reasonable the excuse sounds.
How can I tell if the person is a sublessor?
Ask for the building registry extract or proof of ownership. If they’re a tenant subletting, they must have the original landlord’s written consent. If they can’t produce either, don’t sign.
The photos look real—could they be fake?
Yes. Scammers often steal real listing photos and even real addresses. The photos being genuine doesn’t mean the person posting them is the owner—you need to verify the person and the property title, not the photos.
The amount I lost is small—should I still file a police report?
Yes. These scams typically involve many victims each losing small amounts. A police report helps link the same account/phone number and protects future victims.