TikTok Account Spreading Fake House Listings, Police Warn

Ross Township, Ohio – The Ross Township Police Department is alerting residents to a TikTok account, @thomas.house.for.rent022, that is posting fraudulent house listings for sale or rent. The department issued a warning via social media regarding the scam.

Details of the Scam

One of the addresses currently being advertised on the account is 3949 Brown Farm Drive in Ross Township. Authorities believe multiple other properties may as well be falsely listed. Scammers using this tactic often attempt to pressure potential renters or buyers into sending deposits or personal information before allowing them to view the property in person.

How to Protect Yourself

The Ross Township Police Department recommends the following precautions to avoid falling victim to these types of scams:

• Never send money upfront: Do not send any form of payment (deposit, application fee, holding fee, etc.) before physically touring the property and verifying ownership or management.
• Be wary of payment methods: Exercise caution if asked to pay via Cash App, Zelle, Venmo, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfer.
• Recognize red flags: Be suspicious of listings with prices that seem too good to be true, reluctance to meet in person, excuses about being “out of town,” a sense of urgency, or the utilize of stolen or duplicate photos.
• Verify the listing: Confirm the listing’s legitimacy through reputable websites and verify ownership or management with a known realtor, property manager, or the county auditor/recorder.

What to Do If You’ve Been Targeted

If you have interacted with the TikTok account @thomas.house.for.rent022 or have sent money, the police advise you to:

• Save screenshots of all messages and listings.
• Retain records of any payments made.
• Report the account to TikTok.
• File a report with your local police department.
• Contact your bank or payment app immediately to attempt to stop the transaction.

Recent posts on the account include listings for properties in Mason, Ohio, advertising 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and square footage ranging from 1,520 to 1,552 square feet. One such listing was posted on January 22, 2026, and another on December 26, 2025.