08/08/2026
PUBLIC ADVISORY: Emerging Real Estate Scam
The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) wishes to alert members of the public to a new and concerning real estate scam that has recently come to our attention.
This fraudulent scheme is being executed through fake pages which mimic legitimate real estate businesses. Perpetrators are copying videos and images from authentic listings and reposting them with altered captions designed to appear highly attractive—often advertising properties at significantly below market value. Victims are further enticed as the scammer promises a refund, should they view the property and not purchase.
When interested individuals make contact, scammers engage them via Facebook Messenger and offer an opportunity to “view” the property, requesting payment in advance for this service. Once banking details are shared, victims are encouraged to make a deposit and provide proof of payment via screenshot.
Upon receipt of the funds, the scammers immediately block the victim, effectively severing all communication. As interactions are conducted solely through social media platforms, victims are often left without any verifiable contact information, making it difficult to identify or trace the perpetrators.
The TTPS strongly advises the public to exercise caution when engaging in online real estate transactions. Never send money to unknown individuals or entities without verifying their legitimacy through independent and reliable means.
Anyone who believes they may have been targeted or has fallen victim to this scam is urged to report the matter to the nearest police station.
