Gardaí advise caution when searching for rental properties.
Gardaí are warning students of a notable rise in accommodation fraud in the midlands.
Incidents in Athlone are up almost 30 per cent compared to pre-pandemic figures, as TUS students search for accommodation for the coming college term.
Fraudsters are taking advantage of the accommodation shortage and hoping to catch people out, according Westmeath's Crime Prevention Officer.
Sergeant John McWalters advises not handing over any money until you speak directly to the landlord and you're sure they're credible:
Doctor Spared Jail After Defective Tyre Triggered Crash Which Fatally Injured Daughter
€13,750 Awarded To Midlands Festivals Under Government Funding Scheme
Midlands MEP Seeks Gender-Focused CAP Reform
Countdown On For Ireland's Biggest One-Day Agri Show
Westmeath Marital Rape Victim Speaks Out After Husband Jailed For 10 Years
Offaly Town Set To Come Alive With Annual Dancing At The Crossroads
Laois Community Safety Partnership Seek Joint Letter On E-Scooter Ban
Uisce Éireann Set To Carry Out Upgrade Works In Offaly Town