Renting scams have become a huge problem. Another one I've seen is the bait and switch. They place an ad in the paper offer a sweet deal, but once you actually get the apartment it doesn't have half the stuff offered. Most scams are avoidable, however it seems like that with so many people out there so desperate, they just leap before they think. Not that I can say anything. I had one tenant scam me, with a sob story about her ex husband ruining her credit. Since it had happen to my mom, I bought it. Still kicking myself over that since some of the dates didn't add up when I ran her through http://www.tenantverification.com Should have been a big clue. But what can I say, I was completely fooled. Right up until she missed the first rent. The more emotionally involved you are, the easier it is to be tricked. And scammers know it, which is why the use sob stories and target people down on their luck.

Bells should be ringing in your head " Jaime from Craigsist wants a 3,000 dollar deposit "

I know people say they have good luck with Craigslist, but I wouldn't go near anything listed on it with a ten foot pole. As for renting, it is very easy to check the legal owner information and their contract info via county records. Look at it as doing your homework before handing over any of your hard earned money. Talk to the legal owner of record face to face and not any other way. Trust no one in this day and age when money is involved.