A total of 503 cases of rental fraud were reported to An Garda Síochána between February 2019 and May 2021, with 72pc of all injured parties under the age of 35.

Some 42pc of people subject to rental fraud are under the age of 25, with students moving to attend third level institutions particularly targeted by scammers.

While Gardaí have said instances of rental fraud have been declining in the last 18 months due to Covid-19 restrictions, they are advising students to be vigilant if returning to college and seeking accommodation.

Detective Superintendent Michael Cryan of the Gardaí National Economic Crime Bureau says students should only use “recognised letting agencies or deal with people who are bona fida and trusted”.

“Websites can be cloned, check the URL to ensure it’s a real website and take note of the privacy and refund policy sections.

“Be very wary of social media advertisements or where a person letting the location will only communicate via messenger or whatsapp. You should push for direct answers and if responses are vague, disengage immediately,” Superintendent Cryan said.

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