Almost three quarters of rental fraud involves young people, official data has revealed.

Those aged between 18 and 39 years old are being heavily targeted, according to the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) data released by the Home Office.

The fraud typically involves victims being offered properties that do not exist, or which do not belong to the fraudsters.

Fake details and photos are often used during the process, while the rental prices advertised - often on social media - tend to be below the market rate.

To secure the property or even arrange a viewing, they will usually demand a deposit or the first month’s rent.

It can prompt individuals who are desperately seeking a home to rent to make the upfront payment to avoid missing out.

The data found that the resulting fraud losses amounted to nearly £9million across around 5,000 reported cases last year.

The 18 to 29 age group accounted for 48% of all reported rental fraud cases in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland last year.

At the same time, the 30 to 39 age group accounted for a substantially lower 25%.

Students and young workers often use this time of the year to search for new rented accommodation.

Tenant warning

Home Office ministers are urging renters to avoid rushing into a quick decision or paying any money for a property before they have viewed it in person.

Due to rental fraud often taking place through properties advertised on social media websites, the Government is also renewing its calls for tech companies to go further to tackle fraud on their platforms.

Fraud Minister Lord Hanson said: “Rental fraud is an utterly shameful crime, and this new data should serve as a stark reminder that anyone can be a victim.

“It doesn’t matter how streetwise and tech-savvy you are, fraudsters will get to anyone who doesn’t stop and think before handing over their money.

“That’s why I am determined to root out fraud from our society, crack down on the callous criminals behind it, and ensure that stronger protections are put in place by the tech companies on whose platforms much of this fraud takes place.”

Oliver Shaw, from the City of London Police, said: “Young people are disproportionally targeted by criminals while they look for new accommodation or housing opportunities.

“This can result not only in a devastating financial loss but can also lead to a negative impact on their mental health.”