How to protect yourself from rental fraud: simple tips for renters

Renting online is convenient, but it comes with new risks

Digital leasing platforms have made it easier than ever to find and apply for a new apartment. But with convenience comes exposure—and in the last few years, rental fraud has quietly become one of the biggest threats renters face.

The National Multifamily Housing Council warns that rising fraud is not just driving up operational costs for landlords—it’s also making it harder for honest renters to navigate the process. Meanwhile, technology has made it easier for scammers to create fake listings, forge application documents, or pose as landlords.

Here’s the good news: with a few simple steps, renters can protect themselves from the most common scams and submit stronger, safer applications.

Common types of rental fraud and how they work

There’s no single form of rental fraud. The more you know about how these scams work, the better prepared you’ll be to spot red flags early.

1. Fake listings from fake landlords

One of the most common scams: someone copies photos from a real apartment listing and reposts them with new contact information. They’ll often pressure you to send money fast to “hold” the unit—before you’ve even toured the space. These scams can be hard to trace and even harder to reverse.

2. Identity theft and impersonation

Scammers may apply for units using someone else’s Social Security number, driver’s license, or financial information. This can lead to serious legal and credit complications—for both the victim of the identity theft and the property they move into.

3. Synthetic identity fraud

This occurs when someone creates a new identity using a mix of real and fake data—usually to bypass screening criteria. Because these identities can generate real credit scores, they’re harder for property managers to detect. According to Snappt, these synthetic profiles are a growing source of risk across the industry.

4. Bait-and-switch offers

Some scammers advertise one apartment, but when you apply or show up for a tour, they say that unit is gone—and try to push a more expensive or subpar alternative. This scam preys on renters in urgent housing situations who may feel pressured to say yes.

5 signs a rental scam might be happening

Whether you’re browsing online listings or filling out an application, here are five signs to watch for:

• You’re asked to send a deposit before touring the unit
  
  
• The landlord or broker avoids video calls, phone chats, or in-person meetings
  
  
• The listing has blurry or reused photos from another site
  
  
• The rent is significantly below market rate for the area
  
  
• You’re told to act “immediately” or risk losing the unit
  
  

As Zillow notes in their guide to spotting scams, if something feels off—pause and dig deeper. Scammers often rely on urgency and confusion to get you to act without verifying.

4 ways to protect yourself when applying

Staying safe during the rental process doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s what you can do:

1. Verify the landlord or property management company

Before submitting any application or payment, check that the property exists and is professionally managed. Look for company websites, official email addresses, and online reviews. Sites like Google Maps and local government property databases can help.

2. Tour the unit—virtually or in person

Never pay for a unit you haven’t seen. If you're relocating and can't visit in person, request a video call walk-through. Make sure the person you're speaking with shows ID or proof of affiliation with the management company.

3. Use traceable, secure payment methods

Avoid sending deposits through gift cards, wire transfers, or peer-to-peer apps like Venmo. Credit cards or direct payments through reputable platforms offer more protection in case of fraud.

4. Limit the personal data you share early on

If you’re unsure about a listing, don’t send sensitive information (like your Social Security number or full employment history) before verifying the source. Be cautious about what you include in online forms.

What to do if you're targeted

If you suspect a listing is fraudulent or you’ve already sent money to a scammer:

1. Report the scam to the FTC via reportfraud.ftc.gov
   
   
2. Alert the platform where you saw the listing (Craigslist, Zillow, Facebook Marketplace)
   
   
3. Notify your bank or credit card provider immediately
   
   
4. Place a fraud alert on your credit report through Equifax, TransUnion, or Experian
   
   

Taking action quickly can help prevent further damage—and may also help others avoid falling for the same trap.

What if you’re a qualified renter but still can’t get approved?

Many renters face another challenge: they’re honest, responsible, and fully prepared to pay rent—but don’t meet every standard approval requirement. This can happen if you don’t have a long credit history, you’re self-employed, or you’ve just relocated.

That’s where lease coverage can open doors.

Cosign helps renters unlock housing even without perfect credit

If a property you’re applying to works with Cosign and you don’t meet every approval criteria, you may be referred to our platform. Here’s what happens next:

• You fill out a quick, secure application
  
  
• If approved, you pay a one-time lease coverage fee (based on the rent amount and coverage level)
  
  
• The property signs your lease as usual—no need to find a family member or friend to co-sign
  
  
• If something unexpected happens during your lease, Cosign helps protect the landlord's income and keeps communication open

We’re not insurance—and we’re not a traditional guarantor either. We’re a partner in helping qualified renters move in with confidence.

You might have the income to pay rent, a clean rental history, and still hit roadblocks during the leasing process. Maybe your credit file is thin. Maybe you’re self-employed or relocating from another country. That doesn’t mean you’re a risky tenant—but it can mean you’re overlooked by traditional approval systems.

That’s where Cosign can help.

If a property works with Cosign and you need extra support getting approved, you’ll be invited to apply for lease coverage through our secure portal. If approved, you’ll pay a one-time fee based on your lease terms, and we’ll back your lease—no family or friends required.

✅ There’s no interest, debt, or hidden catch
✅ Your lease is still in your name—Cosign just gives it added strength
✅ If life throws you a curveball, we’re there to help

Cosign was built for renters who are responsible but don’t check every box on paper. We’re here to help you get through the door—and stay there.

What makes Cosign different?

Cosign isn’t a bank. We’re not insurance. And we’re not a rental marketplace. We’re a modern lease coverage platform designed to work for renters and landlords alike.

We believe in:

• Access: Helping qualified people find housing without outdated barriers
  
  
• Clarity: A simple, one-time fee. No monthly payments. No interest.
  
  
• Support: You get tools and reminders to stay on track—and we keep communication open between you and your property manager

Our goal is to make the rental process more human and less rigid for everyone involved.

Looking for a fair shot at your next lease? Explore how Cosign helps renters.