HOW TO AVOID SCAMS (CRITICAL SECTION)

Student accommodation scams are common in Nigeria. Fraudsters know students are desperate and often new to adult responsibilities.

Red Flags to Watch For:
Red Flag Why It’s Dangerous
“Pay before viewing” Legitimate landlords show the room first. Anyone demanding full payment upfront is likely a scammer.
Too-good-to-be-true prices A self-contained apartment in Yaba for ₦100,000? It doesn’t exist.
No physical address They won’t tell you the exact location until you pay.
Urgency pressure “5 other students are interested! Pay now or lose it.” This is a classic scam tactic.
Fake photos Reverse image search the photos. Scammers steal pictures from real listings.
WhatsApp-only “agent” No office, no website, no phone number—just a WhatsApp line.
How to Protect Yourself:
Always view the room in person before paying anything. If you can’t travel, send a trusted friend or family member.

Request a written agreement or receipt. Even a simple handwritten receipt protects you.

Pay with a traceable method. Bank transfers are traceable. Avoid cash or anonymous payment apps if possible.

Take photos during viewing. If you move in and something is damaged, you’ll need proof.

Search the landlord or agent online. Type their phone number into Google. Scammers often reuse numbers.

Use platforms with verification. Websites like NigerianStudentsAccommodation.com (and others) verify hosts before listing them.