Gardaí advise caution when searching for rental properties.
Gardaí are warning students of a notable rise in accommodation fraud in the midlands.
Incidents in Athlone are up almost 30 per cent compared to pre-pandemic figures, as TUS students search for accommodation for the coming college term.
Fraudsters are taking advantage of the accommodation shortage and hoping to catch people out, according Westmeath's Crime Prevention Officer.
Sergeant John McWalters advises not handing over any money until you speak directly to the landlord and you're sure they're credible:
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