U.S., Dec. 23 — A new analysis by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) shows that U.S. consumers have reported substantial financial losses linked to rental scams in recent years, with younger adults disproportionately affected.
According to the FTC, consumers have reported nearly 65,000 rental scam incidents since 2020, resulting in approximately $65 million in reported losses. Many of these scams stem from fraudulent rental listings posted on widely used online platforms, including social media networks and classified advertising websites.
The findings were published in the FTC’s latest Consumer Protection Data Spotlight, which notes that rental scams commonly involve fake listings designed to closely resemble legitimate rental advertisements. In many cases, scammers copy photos, descriptions, and details from authentic listings, but replace the contact information with their own and repost the ads on different platforms.
The analysis indicates that social media plays a significant role in the spread of these scams. About half of consumers who reported a rental scam during the 12-month period ending in June 2025 said the fraudulent listing originated on Facebook. Other platforms, including online classified sites, were also cited as common sources.
Age-based reporting data show that adults aged 18 to 29 were three times more likely than other age groups to report losing money to a rental scam. The FTC did not attribute this disparity to a single cause, but noted that younger consumers are more likely to rely on online platforms and social media when searching for housing.
The FTC identified several recurring scam tactics. In some cases, scammers pressure prospective renters to send money—such as deposits or application fees—before viewing a property in person. Other schemes involve requests for proof of creditworthiness, where consumers are directed to click affiliate links for low-cost credit checks that may enroll them in paid subscriptions with recurring fees. Some scams go further by collecting sensitive personal information, including Social Security numbers, driver’s license details, or pay stubs, which can be used for identity theft.
To reduce the risk of falling victim to rental scams, the FTC recommends that consumers independently search rental addresses online to check whether the same property appears elsewhere with different prices or contact details, or is listed for sale rather than rent. The agency also advises consumers to avoid sharing personal or financial information until a rental agreement has been confirmed, and to compare advertised rents with typical prices in the same area, as unusually low prices can be a warning sign.
The FTC reiterated that it works to promote competition and protect consumers through enforcement, education, and public reporting. The agency emphasized that it does not demand payment, issue threats, instruct consumers to transfer money, or promise prizes. Consumers can access additional guidance on housing-related fraud and other consumer issues through the FTC’s public education resources, and are encouraged to report suspected scams and deceptive business practices through the agency’s fraud reporting system.
