The Ministry of Housing and the Bermuda Real Estate Authority released a public alert on Thursday, warning residents about a wave of property‑related frauds that have begun to surface across the island. According to the advisory, unscrupulous operators are posing as legitimate landlords or real‑estate agents, advertising fictitious rentals that promise unusually high returns or attractive terms. Victims are often urged to transfer money or sign lease agreements before any official paperwork is reviewed.

The scheme typically involves the use of fake listings posted on popular online platforms, with photos that have been doctored or sourced from other markets. Once a tenant is lured into a deposit, the fraudsters either fail to deliver the promised property or suddenly claim the property is already let, citing non‑existent legal documentation. The Ministry advises all prospective tenants to verify the title of any property through the Registrar of Titles, to confirm the identity of the owner with the Real Estate Authority, and to avoid any transaction that requires payment without a formal, signed lease.

Housing Minister Claire Smith urged the public to remain vigilant, stating, "We are working closely with the police and the Real Estate Authority to trace and prosecute those behind these scams. Anyone who suspects they have been targeted should report the incident immediately to the Ministry at 311 or via email at [email protected]." The government also announced a dedicated helpline for real‑estate concerns to assist residents in navigating legitimate transactions.

The warning comes amid a broader push to protect Bermudian consumers from emerging fraud tactics, with officials promising ongoing monitoring and increased enforcement actions against deceptive real‑estate practices.