Ever scroll through property listings and feel like something’s off? Trust that instinct. The police in Abu Dhabi have recently warned about fake ads on social media and property websites, with fraudsters draining accounts after collecting personal details. No one wants to face this, but staying sharp helps you spot the traps before falling into them. Here’s how to protect yourself from these risks.
Spotting a Scam Before It’s Too Late
Scammers are getting sneakier, but that doesn’t mean you can’t stay ahead of them. Here’s what you need to watch out for:
- Prices That Feel Too Good to Be True: We all love a deal, but when the price seems way below what you’d expect, that’s a big red flag. Do a quick check on average prices in the area you’re eyeing so you know when something’s off.
- Pressure to Act Fast: Ever feel like you’re being rushed into making a decision? Fraudsters thrive on this. If someone’s pushing you to move quickly because there are “other interested renters,” take a step back. Legitimate agents will give you time to think things over—they want you to feel confident in your choice.
- Missing Documents: Any legit listing will have all the right paperwork—especially a title deed. If the agent or landlord starts acting shady about providing documents or suggests you skip some legal steps, alarm bells should go off.
- Unverified Listings: Scammers love posting fake properties. Make sure the listing is from a reputable source. Stick to verified platforms like Propertyfinder.ae and Realproperties.ae.
Keep Yourself a Step Ahead
Now that you’re aware of the red flags, here’s how to protect yourself from falling victim:
- Only Work with Licensed Agents: For sales, always check that your agent is registered with the Department of Municipalities and Transport. You can easily verify this through the DARI platform.
- Skip the Cash Payments: This is a big one. If someone asks for cash, that should immediately raise suspicions. Stick to payment methods that leave a trace, like cheques, and make sure you write them in the same name as is on the title deed.
- Insist on a Tawtheeq Contract for Rentals: This contract isn’t just a formality. It’s crucial for your protection and to ensure you can access utilities like water and electricity. No valid Tawtheeq, No deal.
- Inspect Before You Sign: Don’t lock yourself into anything without first seeing the property. Virtual tours can only show so much. Make sure you or someone you trust inspects the property in person before making any commitments.
The best way to avoid falling prey to fraud is by staying alert and using the right tools to verify everything before committing. Need a trustworthy agency to guide you through the process? Reach out to us at 800-2732 or drop us an email at enquiries@cromptonpartners.com. We’re here to help you finish your transactions smoothly and securely.
