A 60-year-old resident of Falconara reported being scammed out of €300 after responding to a fraudulent online advertisement for van rental.
The victim said he transferred the money to the advertised account, believing the offer was legitimate. After the payment, the purported rental service became unreachable.
Following the incident, the victim filed a police complaint, and a second complaint was lodged by another individual who encountered the same fake advertisement.
Details of the Scam
Authorities noted that the fraudulent ads appeared on multiple web platforms, presenting the same contact information and rental terms. Both complainants reported that the scammers requested payment via bank transfer before confirming the vehicle.
The police investigation is ongoing, with officials urging the public to verify the authenticity of rental offers and to avoid upfront payments without proper documentation.
Background
Online rental scams have increased in recent months, targeting consumers seeking short-term vehicle hire. Law enforcement agencies have warned that scammers often replicate legitimate listings to lure victims.
Victims are advised to use reputable rental companies, check reviews, and confirm registration details before making payments.
Why it matters: The case highlights the growing risk of online fraud in the vehicle rental market, underscoring the need for vigilance among consumers in Italy and the broader region.