cody_sonnet@yahoo.com

It sounds like you encountered a rental scam by someone pretending to be a landlord (cody_sonnet@yahoo.com with phone number 12312526385). They likely tried to pressure you into sending money for a house without even viewing it first. This is a common tactic scammers use to steal money from unsuspecting renters. Here's what you should do:

• Report the scam: Report the scammer to the platform where you found the listing (if applicable) and to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/. This helps to track scammers and prevent others from falling victim.

• Don't send any money: Never send money to someone you haven't met and for a property you haven't seen in person. Legitimate landlords will always allow you to view the property before asking for any money.

• Be wary of urgent requests: Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency to pressure you into sending money quickly. Don't let yourself be rushed into making a decision. Take your time and do your research before committing to anything.

Here are some unique tips to help you avoid rental listing scams in the future:

• Search for listings directly on rental platforms: Use reputable rental listing platforms that have screening processes in place for landlords. These platforms may also offer renter protection guarantees.

• Never pay for a property without seeing it first: This is a major red flag. Insist on viewing the property in person before sending any money or signing any lease agreements.

• Meet the landlord in person: Don't just communicate via email or phone. Meet the landlord in person to get a sense of them and the property.

• Verify the landlord's identity: If possible, try to verify the landlord's identity by checking public records or contacting the property owner directly.

• Be cautious of listings with suspiciously low rent: If the rent seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often use low rent prices to lure in potential victims.

• Use online resources to research the property: Search the property address online to see if there are any other listings for it. You can also use reverse image search to see if the pictures used in the listing are being used elsewhere online.

• Trust your gut: If something about the listing feels off, don't ignore it. It's always better to be safe than sorry.

By following these tips, you can be more confident in spotting rental listing scams and avoid losing money to fraudsters. If you're ever unsure about a listing, it's always best to err on the side of caution and walk away. Remember, there are many legitimate rental properties out there, so don't let scammers pressure you into making a rushed decision.