05/07/2026
Please be careful! Check in with a local realtor who you can trust when youโre looking for rentals. Scammers are getting creative lately.
The Live Oak Police Department would like to make the public aware of an ongoing rental scam circulating on Facebook Marketplace and other online platforms.
Individuals are posting local homes for rent that are actually listed for sale on legitimate realtor websites. The scammers are then instructing potential renters to send money through electronic payment applications such as Chime, Cash App, Venmo, or similar services in order to โviewโ the property or hold the home.
This should be an immediate red flag.
Legitimate property owners, realtors, and rental companies typically do not require payment simply to view a property.
If you are currently searching for a home to rent, please take the time to research the listing before sending money or personal information. Verify the property through legitimate real estate websites, contact licensed realtors directly, and never send money to someone you have not met or verified.
If you believe you may have been the victim of a scam, please contact the Live Oak Police Department.