Several months ago the Association warned members of a scam.  The scam has reappeared in a new variation. In this variation, listing information including photos is gathered from an agents or brokerage firm website and a fake Craigslist ad is created advertising the property for rent, typically at a bargain rental. The ad is accompanied by contact information which includes an email address and a phone number, which may be the agents or the owner’s phone number. Email inquiries receive replies with and elaborate story concerning the “owners” necessity of renting very quickly. Of course, the scammer then makes off with the deposit for the “rental”. Members should be careful of putting too much information concerning their listings out on the internet. Members should also remember Connecticut internet advertising rules that require the seller or landlord agree to internet advertising.  Members may wish to reconsider advertising on websites that do not provide security measures to wean out ads that are not identified. Finally, if an agent begins receiving inquiries concerning property for rent when the property is really listed for sale, the agent should immediately check Craigslist and other similar websites to insure that their listing is not being misrepresented by a scammer. Agents should also advise owners to refer all inquires concerning the property, whether for lease or rent, to their agent so as to avoid providing private information to scammers or lending credence to lies told to an innocent party. For further information contact Attorney Eugene Marconi at marconie@ctrealtor.com  or 800-355-4862.

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