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Fraud Awareness

Reports of fraud related to subletting

Public Safety has received reports of fraud related to the app Group Me in a group for University of Pennsylvania subletting.

The complainant joined the subletting group and inquired about leasing a property. Moments later, they were contacted through the same app by a person who claimed to have a studio available for sublease. They discussed the property and agreed to a rate and move-in date. The person did provide what appeared to be a legitimate leasing agreement and then instructed the victim to send half of the first month’s rent plus a security deposit via Zelle to a “friend” of the lessor. When the victim contacted the apartment building to confirm the lease and move-in day, it was learned that there was no employee or property owner with the name of the person who had allegedly leased the studio, and the victim was also unable to make contact again with the fraudulent lessor.

Please exercise caution when searching for your rental, confirm contacts are valid, and use secure methods of payment.

Support Services:

If you should experience what you believe to be fraud or identity theft, please contact any of the following resources to assist you in navigating a resolution. You will not be judged for having experienced such an encounter, please give us the opportunity to help you.