LEBANON — Police are warning the community about an internet scam involving false rental postings on classified websites.

The rental postings list an area property, rental amount and contact information for the person who posted the ad online.

In a recent Lebanon police investigation the communication between the scammer and victim was through emails and involved some facets common in these types of scams, police said in a press release Tuesday.

“The “owner” typically says he and his wife are doing work in a foreign country and need someone to rent their home while they are away. If the victim is interested, he or she is asked to send money to the “owner” in the foreign country. These funds go directly to the scammer, and the would-be renter loses his or her money.”

The scammers also typically claim to have the keys to the rental property with them and tell the renter he or she must make an initial rental payment and or deposit to receive the key.

Consumers can protect themselves, though, from these schemes, police said.

The first rule is, do not wire money to people you do not know.

“Be cautious when dealing with people who say they currently live overseas or are out of the country on business. Scammers tell victims this to explain why they can't meet in person. Be cautious also if they prefer to communicate via e-mail only.

Be cautious of rental properties that will not allow a walkthrough,” police said.

Consumers can also research a landlord by calling the property manager or association, if applicable.

Police also recommend consumers know the area they want to rent in and drive by listed rental properties to see if there are rental signs.

Lebanon police are telling people that if they believe they have been involved in an internet crime or scam to contact their local police department.

The website IC3.gov lists and explains several internet crimes and how to avoid them, police said.

mpierce@newstote.com