TikTok rental fraud scam active in Simpson County, says sheriff

SIMPSON COUNTY, Ky. – The Simpson County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) is investigating ongoing reports of rental fraud.

SCSO says fraudulent rental listings are being posted on TikTok using photos of real properties in Franklin and Simpson County.

Scammers are advertising homes for rent and instruct users interested in renting to text or call the same phone number. The same number is provided for different real estate agents and property owners, according to SCSO.

SCSO provided the following tips to protect yourself from being scammed:

Never send a security deposit, application fee, or first month’s rent before verifying the listing.

Always meet the property owner, landlord, or licensed property manager in person at the property before exchanging money.

Verify that the person advertising the property has the legal authority to rent it.

Be especially cautious if you are pressured to act quickly or asked to pay through cash apps, wire transfers, or other non-traditional payment methods.

Potential scams can be reported to SCSO by calling local law enforcement.