Charlotte renters should watch out for new credit check scam. Here’s how it works

Chyna Blackmon
·2 min read

If you’re planning a move into an apartment soon, watch out for a new scam targeting potential renters.

The Better Business Bureau is warning of a scam involving fake credit checks to trick potential renters into giving out personal information.

According to the BBB, there have been multiple reports of scammers posing as property owners and sending fake credit check websites to potential tenants to complete.

“The website may look professional, but it’s all part of a scam. After you enter your sensitive information and pay for the credit check, the “landlord” will disappear,” the BBB explained. “Your credit card information could be compromised, and you could even be at risk for identity theft.”

Tom Bartholomy, CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Southern Piedmont and Western North Carolina, says it’s a scam happening in big cities across the country, including Charlotte.

“We’ve seen rental scams and homes for sale scams before. This is the first time we’ve seen it connected with a credit check,” Bartholomy told The Charlotte Observer. “Scammers have found in the past that this type of scam works, especially in an area like Charlotte where a lot of people are moving in and moving from out of state.”

But it’s not just a scam tied to apartments. Bartholomy explained that it’s happening to those looking at multiple rental properties, including homes too.

“I gave my name, address, and social security number to obtain my credit score from this website. I was asked to take a screenshot of my score and send it to the same address that emailed me the link. Afterward, I was sent an email with a showing time, but the house number was not listed on this email or on the listing on Craigslist,” someone reported to the BBB.

How to spot a rental credit check scam

  • Be wary of rental prices well below market rates.

  • Research any listing or contact information associated with the property online to make sure that it’s not just a photo falsely advertising the property.

  • Check out the property in person.

  • Verify the property owner’s information by contacting a licensed real estate agent to see who owns a property or check the county property appraiser’s website.

  • Be cautious about credit check websites and use reputable sources, such as those recommended by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.