While conditions remain volatile, saddening reports are emerging of some of the most vulnerable in society being targeted by cruel predators. They're allegedly creating fake Marketplace ads and listing them for well below the market rate, waiting for would-be applicants to send hefty deposits. It said incidents of this nature have spiked in recent times, with more than $50,000 lost to rent scams across the state last year. Advertisement AdvertisementAdvertisement Advertisement"It is particularly heartbreaking to see scammers targeting renters because they know they are under pressure and may take risks to secure a property. "To avoid rental scammers, insist on inspecting the property in person and treat unusually cheap rent as a red flag."