How to spot a rental scam in SF before you pay a cent
Search the address, compare the rent with similar rooms, and look for the same photos under another name or price. Visit in person or send someone you trust. Confirm the person can actually show the room and explain their relationship to it.
Do not send a deposit before written terms and verification. Pressure, an unusually low price, and a demand for wire, gift-card, cryptocurrency, or instant-payment-app money are strong warning signs.
Slow down when a deal feels urgent. A real room can withstand basic questions.
Source: FTC rental-listing scams.