Booking Advice· Updated October 2026
Every year, thousands of international students lose deposits to fake listings. The scams are getting more convincing, but they almost always share the same warning signs.
The red flags
- The price is far below everything nearby. If a central studio costs half the going rate, ask why.
- You're asked to pay before seeing a contract. A real landlord or residence issues terms before taking money.
- Payment by gift card, crypto or a personal transfer. Legitimate properties take payment through traceable, official channels.
- The "landlord" is abroad and can't show you the room. A classic line, used to explain why no viewing is possible.
- Pressure to decide in hours. Urgency is a scammer's best tool.
- Photos you can find elsewhere. A reverse image search takes ten seconds.
How to protect yourself
- Book through a platform that verifies its listings.
- Read the full contract before paying anything.
- Pay deposits only through official, traceable methods.
- Check the address exists and matches the listing on a map.
- Ask for a live video tour.
Why GoDorm is safer
Every property on GoDorm is verified before it is listed, payments go through official channels, and our team checks your contract with you before you sign. If anything looks wrong, you have someone to call.
Talk to our team before you send a deposit to anyone.