Is Finding a Rental Difficult?

Finding a rental in Melbourne has never been harder. With the cost-of-living crisis and severe rental shortages, many people are feeling desperate. And sadly, scammers are exploiting that desperation in cruel and calculated ways.

Fake Landlords Targeting the Vulnerable

In recent months, renters across Melbourne have been tricked by fraudsters posing as landlords. Fake listings are popping up across online marketplaces and social media platforms. Victims are pressured into transferring bonds and rent upfront, before they’ve even seen the inside of a property.

Once the payment is made, the so-called landlord vanishes.

Victims have reported feeling deliberately targeted, with international students and young women among the hardest hit.

Last year, four Monash University students were left homeless and $2,400 out of pocket each after a scammer, using the alias Samantha Khat, showed them a fake property, collected deposits, and disappeared.

“It really affected our mental health,” one of the students said.

Authorities Sound the Alarm

Detective Sergeant John Cheyne from Victoria Police’s Cybercrime Squad says these scams are worsening the state’s already dire housing situation.

“An opportunistic scam like this can end up hitting everyday Victorians where it really hurts, particularly during a shortage of rental properties and a cost-of-living crisis.”

The numbers confirm this:

• 514,300 Australians fell victim to scams in 2022–23.
• Those aged 35 to 44 were the most affected.
• Victoria accounted for 26% of all cybercrime reports nationwide, making it one of the most targeted states.

How to Protect Yourself

✅ Never transfer money upfront without inspecting the property inside.

✅ Be cautious of low rent prices: if it’s too good to be true, it usually is.

✅ Trust your instincts: don’t let scammers pressure you into rushing.

How Cyber Anchor Can Help

Rental scams don’t just cost money: they take a heavy emotional toll, leaving people feeling unsafe and betrayed.

At Cyber Anchor, we believe knowledge is the first step toward protection. Our cyber safety education programs help everyday Australians spot the warning signs and stay one step ahead of scammers.

Cyber Anchor provides easy-to-understand resources, tools, and updates on how to avoid common scams and data breaches. Whether it’s recognizing phishing emails or setting up better security for your accounts, we’ll guide you through it.

No Expert Knowledge Required:
Just an open mind and the application of easy, practical online safety tipes

Don’t wait until it’s too late: learn how to protect your personal information today.

Take action now and sign up to Cyber Anchor to join our free talks and our community to discover how we can help you stay safe online. Let us help you understand the latest threats and provide the tools you need to protect yourself and your family from cybercrime.

Learn more about Cyber Anchor solutions and start your journey to a safer internet experience today.