Rental scams
Why does the landlord want to move the conversation to WhatsApp or email?
Updated By the Housing Rocket moderators
Short answer
Moving you off the platform where you found the listing lets a scammer get away from moderators, report buttons and the automated checks that could shut down their account. It isn't always a scam, since some landlords simply prefer text or email, but a quick push to WhatsApp, Telegram or email before any viewing is a common warning sign.
Once you leave Facebook, the group's moderators can't see the conversation, and if the profile is removed you have nothing linking that person to the listing. Scammers also like apps and numbers that aren't tied to their real identity.
Ways to protect yourself:
- Keep early conversations in Messenger, where you can report the account.
- Screenshot the listing and the profile before you switch, in case either disappears.
- Search any phone number or email address you're given together with the word "scam".
- Never click links sent by text or email to "apply" or "pay a deposit". Type the management company's web address yourself.
Watch for email addresses that almost match a real company, with an extra letter or a free email service instead of the company's domain. Legitimate property managers normally email from their company domain, and their phone numbers match the ones on their website.
Want the whole picture? Read How To Avoid Housing Scams.