Here is the link to an article on the fbi.gov website giving future landlords and future tenants valuable information about scams to be aware of and includes a list of steps to take to protect yourself.  Since this is a recent press release, it is apparent these scams are still out there.  In some distressed markets, scammers even rent out a vacant home, the tenants move in, and then find out it was all a scam when they are told to leave.  If it sounds too good to be true……..you know the rest.  Landlords should use a reputable service to do a credit check on potential tenants or use a property manager who takes those steps on behalf of the landlord.  It never hurts to hold a check for a 10-14 day period before releasing any of the money so you can make sure it’s good.  Prospective tenants should take the steps outlined in the FBI press release.  Don’t get scammed.