Police urged members of the public looking for rental accommodations on the island to use caution after a suspected scam.

A spokesman said a person responding to a rental property advertisement was asked to provide government-issued identification, proof of income and payment including a deposit and viewing/processing fee electronically before being allowed to view the premises.

The spokesman said: “The prospective tenant became suspicious of these requests, and no financial loss was incurred.”

Prospective tenants should be cautious of listings that require payment before viewing the property, and never send deposits or other fees to secure a viewing before confirming that the property and landlord are legitimate.

They are also encouraged to verify the landlord or property manager’s identity “through reputable sources”, and be wary of request to send money via wire transfer or electronic payment platforms, “particularly where there is pressure to act quickly”.

The spokesman added: “If an offer appears too good to be true, it may be a scam.”

Anyone potentially targeted by a rental scam, or who has sent payments to a suspected fraudster, should report the matter to police at the earliest opportunity.