Stop when you see these signals
- Rent far below market
- Refusal to show property before token payment
- Photos reused from other cities or listings
- Pressure that many people are waiting
- Agent name or phone does not match platform listing
Marketplace fraud
Fake Rental Deposit Scam
A fake rental listing shows attractive photos, below-market rent, and urgent availability. The scam asks for a token, deposit, or visit fee before verified viewing or paperwork.
Common script
What the message or call may sound like
Flat is available today. Pay refundable visit token to block the slot and get owner details.
Mechanism
Why this scam works
Housing searches are stressful, and a good listing creates fear of missing out.
If this is happening to you
- Do not pay before verifying property and agent.
- Reverse-search photos if possible.
- Ask for verified listing, paperwork, and in-person or video walkthrough.
- Use platform protections where available.
- Do not pay refundable tokens to unknown agents.
- Do not share documents before verifying the listing.
- Do not leave the listing platform for payment pressure.
- Listing URL
- Photos
- Agent phone number
- Payment request and UPI ID
- Compare rent with nearby listings.
- Check image reuse.
- Pay deposits only after verified paperwork and inspection.
Run a check
Use Kaval on this pattern
Answers
Common questions
Are visit tokens always scams?
Not always, but paying an unknown person before verifying the property, agent, and paperwork is high risk.
How do reused photos help scammers?
They let scammers create attractive listings without owning or controlling the property.
Guides