Carabinieri investigate social media vacation rental scam in Finale Ligure

A couple from the Vercelli area fell victim to a vacation rental scam after responding to a social media advertisement for an apartment in Finale Ligure. Following negotiations conducted via instant messaging and the receipt of property photos, the victims paid a deposit via bank transfer. The perpetrator subsequently deactivated their phone and became unreachable.

Investigations by the Carabinieri revealed that the property was listed at prices significantly different from those promised in the advertisement. The suspect, a man already known to law enforcement for similar offenses, has been referred to the judicial authorities.

The Vercelli Carabinieri have issued warnings regarding online summer bookings, advising citizens to be wary of prices that are too low, to use official and certified platforms rather than private social media chats, and to verify the identity of landlords and the existence of properties through satellite maps or official records before transferring funds.