The number of tenants renting from private landlords has reached its highest level since 2000, with half of individuals under 35 renting in a highly competitive market.

An investigation revealed that Facebook Marketplace is a prolific site for rental scams, with nearly half of all claims made to Santander linked to this platform.

Analysis of hundreds of Facebook Marketplace ads showed that 66% of listings in Birmingham were scams, with 74% displaying at least one red flag according to Meta's guidelines.

Concerns have been raised about the moderation efforts of social media companies, as over half of the analyzed listings contained images taken from legitimate rental sites.

A surge in rental scams across the UK has led to losses totaling £12 million for desperate renters, as highlighted in the Channel 4 documentary 'UNTOLD: The £12 Million Rental Scam'.

One victim, Anna, lost £8,100 when a scammer posed as an estate agent and collected six months' rent upfront for a property that was actually an Airbnb, leaving her and her partner without shelter.

Harleen Nottay, a reporter and former victim of a rental scam, emphasizes the stigma of shame associated with being scammed, noting that many victims do not report their experiences, which may inflate the actual figures of rental fraud.

Reports of rental scams have dramatically increased, with nearly 100 cases reported to the police each week and a staggering 345% rise in the last decade.

Only 1% of reported rental fraud cases resulted in charges last year, underscoring the challenges victims face in seeking justice.

In response to the growing issue, Meta has stated they are investing in fraud protections and working with law enforcement, urging users to report scams immediately.

Additionally, the UK Government is discussing a new Renters' Rights Bill aimed at protecting tenants by preventing bidding wars and capping advance payments.

Scammers are increasingly targeting potential victims through platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Open Rent, taking advantage of the high demand for rental properties, where there is only one available for every eight tenants.