Norfolk, VA — Jaden Hickman and her friends fell victim to a rental scam after finding what seemed like an ideal four-bedroom home listed at an unbelievably low price of $650 per month on Facebook Marketplace. Excited about their find, Hickman communicated with the supposed owner, who claimed to be a truck driver more concerned about finding responsible tenants than making money. After viewing the property and receiving a lease agreement, they moved in, only to discover days later that they had been scammed.

How the Scam Unfolded

Hickman and her friends were quickly lured in by the scammer, who provided access via a lockbox code and even sent lease documents and receipts for payments. However, suspicious behavior, such as unusual text messages and the abrupt arrival of a contractor and police officer, raised red flags. The police confirmed that the lease was fake, leaving Hickman and her friends devastated and homeless.

Insights from Norfolk Police and Experts

Norfolk police, investigating the incident, highlighted the growing prevalence of online rental scams, urging potential renters to be vigilant. Experts recommend several precautions:

• Verify Ownership: Always research the property and verify ownership details.
• Avoid Unrealistic Deals: Deals that seem too good to be true often are.
• Secure Payments: Never send money without confirming the legitimacy of the transaction.

Conclusion: Learning from the Experience

For Hickman and her friends, this ordeal has been a harsh lesson. They remain hopeful about finding a legitimate place to live, emphasizing the importance of thorough research and caution when dealing with online rentals.

For more tips on avoiding rental scams, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website.

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