T
he Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office has issued a warning about a real estate scam circulating on social media after receiving multiple complaints. Scammers are using photos from legitimate real estate companies to advertise properties for rent or lease at lower costs.

    Social media is a common platform for real estate scams, including fake rental listings and incomplete leases. To avoid falling victim, be cautious of suspicious listings. Scammers may post fake ads on platforms like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace, asking for deposits or background check fees before showing the property. Never pay before seeing a property in person.

    Be wary of bait and switch scams where scammers advertise appealing opportunities to get people to sign up, only to tell them there's a problem with the listing. Red flags include profiles with few details, recently created accounts, refusal to provide credit information, or only wanting to communicate through text messages or Facebook Messenger.

    If you suspect you've been scammed, contact the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office immediately at 434-738-6171.