Avoid Scams and Fraud
Stay safe while searching for your perfect rental
Shopping online comes with an increased risk of scams and fraud.
Always stay cautious and alert before sharing personal information or sending any type of payment.
We work hard to provide users with the most up to date and comprehensive library of rental listings. However, scammers do try to take advantage of college students like any other renters. By staying informed and working together, we can help make online marketplaces safer for everyone.
Please note that we do not take part in rental transactions and cannot refund money if you become a victim of fraud. While we continuously monitor listings to provide a safe experience, we cannot guarantee that our platform will always be completely free of false or fraudulent listings.
🚩 The 'Red Flag' Checklist
If any of these pop up in your DMs or inbox, think again.
Suspiciously Low Rent
A penthouse for the price of a parking spot? Scammers use low prices to bait quick, emotional decisions.
Off-Platform Payments
If they ask for Zelle, Cash App, Bitcoin, or Wire Transfers, it's a scam. Genuine providers use secure, traceable portals.
The 'Ghost' Landlord
'I'm currently away on vacation' or 'I'm volunteering overseas.' If they can't show you the interior or meet you, they don't own the keys.
The Fake Invoice
Received an invoice from 'Student.com' asking for a deposit? Delete it. We never handle the cash or facilitate the lease transaction.
🛑 4 Signs You're Being Scammed
If you notice any of these, it's time to hit the brakes.
The 'Drive-By' Tour
They tell you to go look at the building from the sidewalk because they aren't 'in town' to let you in. Never pay for a place you haven't seen the inside of (virtually or in person).
The FedEx Hustle
They claim the keys are being shipped via courier and provide a 'tracking number' that only activates once you pay. Real keys don't work like that.
The High-Pressure Script
'Sign in 24 hours or I give it to the other 10 students waiting.' Scammers hate it when you take time to think.
Third-Party Detours
They try to move the conversation to encrypted apps or suggest using a 'middle-man' escrow service you've never heard of.
🚨 Emergency Protocol:
If a listing feels 'off', don't just close the tab - help us remove the scammers from Student.com.
Report anything suspicious to Student.com
Call us at +44 800 316 2918 or email contact@student.com.
Trace the Paperwork
Save every screenshot, email header, and payment handle.
External Authorities
Contact the IC3 (Internet Crime Complaint Center) or the FTC.
Recall the Cash
If you used a transfer service, call their fraud department immediately. Every second counts.