Protect Yourself from Rental Scams

Finding a place to live in a new city or country can be challenging and unfortunately, fraudsters are increasingly targeting people in exactly this situation.
On wgmieten.com, your safety is our priority. That’s why we want to inform you about current rental scams and how to protect yourself effectively.

⚠️ What do rental scams look like?
Fraudulent listings often follow the same pattern:

Too-good-to-be-true listings: Modern, stylish apartments in top locations at unusually low prices.
Fast, friendly communication: Scammers respond quickly and act very professionally.
Upfront payment request: Before any real viewing, you’re asked to transfer money, usually for a deposit or first rent, often to a foreign bank account.
No real apartment: After payment, the contact disappears. The apartment either doesn’t exist or belongs to someone else.

🆕 New Tricks: Fake Viewings and Professional Fronts
Scammers are becoming more convincing:

They sometimes rent temporary apartments (e.g. via Airbnb) just for the viewing.
They use Austrian IBANs, create fake real estate companies, and build professional-looking websites.
Even in-person viewings can be part of the scam.
This illusion of professionalism leads many to send large sums and never see their money again.

✅ Tips: How to protect yourself

🔍 Check listings carefully

Be suspicious of very low rents or “perfect” photos.
Use Google Reverse Image Search to find reused images from other ads.

📞 Verify who you’re talking to

Ask for legal info like business registration or proof of ownership.
A land registry check can confirm who owns the property.

🏠 Viewings ≠ safety

Just because you visit a flat doesn’t mean the offer is real.
Talk to neighbors or the building management if something feels off.

💸 Never pay without certainty

Don’t send money under pressure or urgency.
Always confirm that the listing is legitimate.

💳 Be careful with foreign accounts

Foreign bank details are a common red flag, but even Austrian accounts can be used fraudulently.

🆘 What to do if you’re affected

Contact your bank immediately to attempt a refund.
Report the fraud to the police – provide all documentation (ads, messages, payment records).
Report the ad on the platform where you found it.
Talk about it – it can help others avoid the same situation.

At wgmieten.com, we are committed to safe, secure housing options.
We carefully review our listings and encourage our users to stay informed and alert.

If you have concerns, questions, or want to report suspicious activity – please get in touch.
E-Mail: support@wgmieten.com

Stay safe and help others stay safe, too.