The recent NoBroker rental scam has once again exposed how cyber frauds are evolving in India’s real estate market. A 44-year-old Mumbai resident was tricked into paying ₹2.8 lakh for a fake rental listing, where scammers cleverly posed as property owners. This case highlights the urgent need to be cautious during online property transactions.
How the NoBroker Rental Scam Happened
In this case, the victim found a 2 BHK flat listed on a trusted platform—NoBroker. The scammers, using the names Avinash and Ashish Parihar, pretended to be landlords. They even arranged a physical viewing of the flat, making the fraud more believable.
Fake Landlords and Real Viewings
To make things worse, the scammers showed the property in person. A woman, acting as a tenant, helped create the illusion. The flat even had a nameplate with “Garima” on it, giving it a realistic touch.
Money Transferred and Then Vanished
The victim transferred ₹2.8 lakh as a deposit and rent over a few days via Google Pay and Bank of Baroda. Soon after, the so-called landlord disappeared.
Shocking Revelation: Petrol Pump Account Involved
When the victim called the number again, a new person responded. He claimed the number belonged to a Bhopal-based petrol pump, and the amount had already been withdrawn in cash.
Police Action Against Cyber Fraud
After realizing the scam, the victim filed an FIR under Sections 66(C) and 66(D) of the IT Act. The Mumbai Cyber Crime Unit has started its investigation and is working to trace the money trail.
Why the NoBroker Rental Scam Worked So Well
Let’s understand why this scam succeeded:
- Trusted platform: Using NoBroker made the listing look genuine.
- Face-to-face interaction: The property viewing felt authentic.
- Psychological trust: Real people and real locations created false assurance.
- Quick transactions: Scammers pushed for fast payments before disappearing.
Common Traits of Online Rental Scams
This isn’t an isolated case. Many rental scams follow a similar pattern:
- Too-good-to-be-true prices
- Urgency in payment
- Landlords unwilling to meet twice
- Fake documents or IDs
- Communication shifting from the platform to WhatsApp or direct calls
How to Stay Safe From Rental Scams
To avoid falling prey to similar scams, follow these best practices:
1. Always Verify the Landlord
Use official property records or verify ownership with the housing society.
2. Use Escrow Payment Options
Use payment channels that offer transaction protection. Platforms like NoBroker offer safer alternatives—use them properly.
3. Insist on Legal Paperwork
Before paying, ask for the agreement, ID proof, and utility bills.
4. Cross-Check the Listing
If the listing is too perfect or extremely affordable for the area, it’s probably fake.
What Should You Do If You’re Scammed?
- File an FIR: Immediately report the incident to your local cyber police.
- Call the helpline: Dial 1930, India’s national cyber fraud helpline.
- Block further payments: Inform your bank and freeze the transaction trail.
- Submit a complaint: Use https://cybercrime.gov.in for official reporting.
Final Thoughts on NoBroker Rental Scam
Cybercriminals are becoming smarter, using trusted platforms and realistic setups to scam innocent tenants. The recent NoBroker rental scam in Mumbai is a wake-up call. Whether you are a first-time tenant or a frequent mover, always verify before you pay.
Looking for verified, rental homes, resale inventory and trusted builders in Mumbai or Thane? Visit OneStopRealty for expert help, legal checks, and tenant-friendly support.
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