The property market has long been an attractive target for fraudsters, and as technology continues to evolve, scammers are becoming more sophisticated in their methods. In 2025, increasingly advanced tactics are being used to deceive both buyers and sellers. While the opportunities in the property market remain significant, it is important to stay vigilant and take specific steps to protect yourself from potential scams. If you’re actively involved in the property market, scheduling a property valuation with a trusted and well-regarded agent can offer a key safeguard against many common valuation-related frauds.

Sophisticated Digital Scams

AI-Generated Listing Fraud

One of the more common scams in 2025 involves AI-generated property listings that don’t actually exist. These fraudulent listings typically feature:

• Convincing images that are created or modified using advanced AI technologies
• Detailed descriptions that are tailored to meet local market expectations
• Virtual viewings created using deepfake technology to present non-existent properties
• Pressure tactics, such as claims of multiple interested parties to rush prospective buyers into making deposits quickly

Protection strategy: Always request in-person viewings before transferring any money. Verify the property’s existence by conducting a land registry check and use reverse image searches to cross-reference pictures, which can help identify AI-generated content.

Identity Spoofing

The property sector has seen a rise in identity theft, with scammers impersonating legitimate professionals. This can include:

• Fraudsters posing as estate agents with fake profiles and credentials
• Fake solicitor firms with convincing websites and documents
• Impersonation of property owners to carry out fraudulent sales
• Deepfake video calls that appear to be from legitimate professionals

Protection strategy: Always verify the identity of professionals through official channels. Contact companies using independent phone numbers (rather than those provided in emails) and check if they are registered with regulatory bodies like the Property Ombudsman or the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

Deposit and Payment Scams

Fabricated Urgency Tactics

Some scammers exploit the competitive nature of the property market by creating false urgency. They may:

• Claim there are multiple competing offers requiring immediate deposits
• Demand last-minute “administrative fees” to secure properties
• Request “goodwill deposits” to remove properties from the market
• Push for wire transfers instead of secure payment methods

Protection strategy: Set clear payment terms with your solicitor before proceeding with any transaction. Never make rushed payments without confirmation, and always be cautious of any sudden changes in payment details.

Escrow and Holding Account Fraud

In these scams, buyers are convinced to transfer funds into supposedly secure third-party accounts:

• Fraudulent escrow services claiming to safely hold deposits
• Fake holding accounts that supposedly protect both buyers and sellers
• Seemingly legitimate payment portals that divert funds to fraudsters
• Secure payment platforms that turn out to be fraudulent

Protection strategy: Only use recognized conveyancing solicitors for handling transaction funds. Always verify banking details through multiple channels before transferring any money and remain cautious about any services offering shortcuts to traditional processes.

Advanced Rental Scams

Long-Term Subletting Fraud

A growing issue involves scammers who rent properties legitimately and then sublet them to multiple victims at higher rates. These scammers may:

• Pose as landlords without actually owning the properties
• Rent the same property to multiple tenants at different times
• Offer elaborate backstories explaining why traditional contracts aren’t available
• Collect significant upfront payments for “exclusive” properties

Protection strategy: Verify the property’s ownership through land registry searches and meet landlords at the property on more than one occasion. Be cautious if there is any resistance to regular referencing procedures.

Rental Payment Platforms

Scammers have begun creating fake payment platforms to appear legitimate:

• Apps or websites offering “rent guarantee” services
• Platforms claiming to hold deposits in secure accounts
• Services charging fees to “verify” tenants and landlords
• Payment systems that falsely claim to insure against rental scams

Protection strategy: Stick to established payment methods and contractual arrangements. Be cautious if a landlord insists on using new, unverified platforms or services for payments.

Renovation and Property Investment Scams

Contractor Advance Fee Scams

Renovation scams are becoming more common, where fraudsters:

• Demand large upfront deposits for materials from buyers or property improvers
• Disappear after receiving the money
• Provide falsified reviews or portfolios of previous work
• Create artificial supply chain issues to justify advance payments

Protection strategy: Never agree to pay large deposits upfront. Use escrow services or create payment schedules tied to completion milestones. Verify contractors through industry associations and check their business registration details.

Investment Property Schemes

Scammers continue to lure victims with fake investment opportunities, such as:

• International development schemes that don’t exist
• “Guaranteed rental return” schemes that have no actual properties
• Property investment clubs requiring substantial membership fees
• Cryptocurrency-based property investments offering unrealistic returns

Protection strategy: Conduct thorough due diligence for any investment opportunity. Visit sites in person when possible and consult independent financial advisors who are not associated with the scheme.

Protecting Yourself in 2025

Essential Verification Steps

To stay safe in today’s complex property landscape:

• Verify all professionals involved in your transaction with official regulatory bodies
• Book a property valuation with a reputable, established agent to confirm market value before committing to any purchase or sale
• Conduct land registry checks to verify property ownership
• Use secure payment methods and verify banking details independently
• Insist on in-person viewings and meetings, even if virtual alternatives are available
• Be cautious of unusual urgency or pressure tactics rushing payment decisions
• Trust your instincts if something seems too good to be true or deviates from the norm

Technology Safeguards

To protect yourself, consider using technology defensively:

• Use digital signature platforms with strong verification processes
• Enable multi-factor authentication for property-related accounts
• Share sensitive documents via secure communication channels
• Use blockchain verification services to ensure document authenticity
• Consider cyber insurance to safeguard against digital property fraud

Red Flags to Watch For

Be aware of the following warning signs of potential scams:

• Prices significantly below market value with no clear explanation
• Resistance to standard due diligence or in-person meetings
• Pressure to act quickly or make payments outside normal procedures

• Reluctance to involve solicitors or other professionals
• Communication restricted to email or messaging apps, rather than phone or in-person
• Requests to use unfamiliar payment platforms or services
• Poor-quality or inconsistent documentation with errors or unusual terms

Recovery Options If Scammed

If you do fall victim to a property scam:

• Report the issue to Action Fraud and local authorities
• Contact your bank to attempt to recall payments or freeze accounts
• Notify regulatory bodies like the Property Ombudsman and Financial Conduct Authority
• Consult a solicitor specializing in property fraud for recovery options
• Gather all relevant evidence, including communications and payments
• Review your insurance coverage, as some policies now include fraud protection
• Seek out support networks for fraud victims for guidance and resources

The property market in 2025 presents many opportunities, but it also carries significant risks from increasingly sophisticated scammers. By staying vigilant, verifying everything independently, and following established procedures, you can navigate the market more safely and successfully. Remember, legitimate professionals will always encourage thorough verification processes and proper due diligence, rather than rushing you toward commitment or payment.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the content, the strategies and advice shared do not guarantee protection against property scams. It is always recommended that you conduct thorough research and consult with trusted professionals, such as licensed estate agents, solicitors, and financial advisors, before making any property-related decisions.

Published by Jeremy S.