Elche Woman Loses €2,000 in Fake Property Rental Scam

An Elche woman has lost €2,000 to a fraudster operating a fake property rental website, according to Operation Flatium conducted by the Guardia Civil. The case began after the victim reported the scam via the Guardia Civil’s online reporting system. She had found the property through a popular real estate platform and contacted the owner via email, who claimed the original listing had been removed due to numerous inquiries.

The scammer then directed her to a separate website for the rental process, asserting he was abroad and unable to arrange an in-person viewing.

To build trust, the man promised to visit Spain to transfer the keys and assured her by sending a rental contract and a copy of his flight ticket. The victim transferred the €2,000, covering the first month’s rent and a two-month deposit. However, the supposed landlord later claimed a digit error occurred during the transaction and requested the payment be made again. Upon becoming skeptical, the woman requested a meeting and viewing, which the man ceased responding to.

Cybercrime officers analyzed the communications and payment records, ultimately identifying a Vigo resident as the alleged offender. The investigation also traced the money’s handling, revealing potential money-laundering. The man is currently under investigation for fraud and money laundering, with the case forwarded to judicial authorities in Vigo.

The Guardia Civil warns prospective tenants to utilize verified platforms, refrain from payments outside official channels, and remain cautious of suspiciously low prices or landlords unwilling to permit viewings. Renters are advised to request the precise address, supplementary photographs, and a written contract, while preserving all communications and payment records.