Ontarians Scammed By Fake Muskoka Cottage Rentals Are Ending Up At Strangers' Doors
"If the price seems too good to be true...it probably is."
Bracebridge OPP is warning residents about an ongoing Ontario cottage scam that uses online marketplaces, such as Kijiji, to advertise fake Muskoka rentals.
According to a police report, the scammers are using photos, false rental agreements and legitimate addresses to lure people into sending money.
"Unfortunately, when the renter arrives to check-in at the cottage they believe they have rented, it is not a rental at all," an excerpt from the report reads.
The victims are being left displaced and forced to return home while the homeowners are left irritated by the arrival of strangers on their doorsteps.
"Potential renters are encouraged to be diligent about the properties that they are exploring online and take extra steps to ensure that the rental is legitimate. Generally speaking, if the price seems too good to be true...it probably is," warns the OPP.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.