Never send anyone money on roommatch.com, especially if you have not seen the property. If someone requests that you need to make a deposit, make sure to meet them in person, see the location, and keep documentation for your own records.
Never accept checks for more than the agreed upon amount.
Scammers often send you more money than you have requested and ask you to send them the difference back. In the meanwhile, their check to you ends up not clearing and you are out the full amount.
Report Profiles of Scammers and Abusers.
To report a listing, user profile, or message, scroll down to the bottom of their profile and click on the “Report Abuse” button, or in the messages section, click the “Report Abuse” icon.
It is important to enter the reasons into the description box as to why you want to report this profile.
Security Tips to Follow.
Do not be shy about asking to view social media accounts like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Linkedin. Beware of anyone who hesitates to share this information with you before exchanging money, personal information, or meeting in person.
Make sure to carry out all communication with other users through roommatch.com chat.
Don’t be too quick to give out your personal information, like your phone number or email address, until you have gotten to know the user through chat.
When meeting up with potential roommates in person, be sure to bring someone with you or let people know where you are going incase anything were to happen.
Ask detailed questions about potential roommates and places for rent.
Follow your instincts. If you have an uncomfortable feeling, don’t meet. There are plenty of other options!
Don’t feel uncomfortable about googling somebody’s name, phone number, or any other information they may give you about themselves.
Let your friends know where you are going.
Tell a friend or family member about your plans, including when and where you are going. Always have your cell phone charged and with you at all times.
Some things to keep an eye out for.
Be wary of any property profiles that seem too cheap for the neighborhood or the quality of apartment shown on the photos. If it sounds or looks too good to be true, it probably is.
Be wary of any property profiles where the details are not consistent. Example: An apartment in Culver City claiming to have a view of Universal Studios. This is a clear indicator that the owner of this property has no idea of the geography of Culver City and it is probably a fake.