Rental scams often target people who are outside Canada, under time pressure, or unfamiliar with normal rental documents. A listing may use copied photos, demand payment before viewing, avoid video calls, refuse a lease, or pressure the student with a fake deadline. The goal is to slow the process down before money changes hands. Specific questions worth discussing: - What warning signs suggest a rental listing may be unsafe? - How can students verify the landlord, unit, lease, and payment method from outside Canada? - What should be checked before sending a deposit? - Which personal documents should not be sent too early? If replying with a similar situation, include the province or city, current status, key dates, program or job details when relevant, and the official source you are using. Please do not post private documents, UCI numbers, passport details, bank account information, or full addresses. For reference value, please mention what official page or school, employer, bank, landlord, or province-specific source you checked most recently. That helps other readers understand whether the answer depends on timing, location, document wording, or a personal planning assumption. This is a community discussion starter, not legal advice. Please check official requirements or speak with a qualified professional when needed.