How to Spot Fake Real Estate, Visa, Travel & Talent Agents

• Landlord or agent claims to be interstate or overseas and asks for bond or holding rent before letting you inspect inside with an agent present.
• Smart-lockbox code is promised only after you transfer a "refundable key deposit" via PayID, Zelle, wire, or gift card.
• Conveyancing or settlement email arrives with updated bank account numbers shortly before property closing.

How to verify safely: Search the agent licence number on your state register below and phone the agency head office using the number on the public register. If you manage corporate or commercial property settlements, also review the agentsfraud.com commercial escrow wire callback procedure.

• Guarantees a fast-tracked Australian, US, UK, or Canadian work visa for an upfront cash or crypto fee.
• Asks you to send original passports or pay visa charges into a personal bank account rather than the official government immigration portal.
• In Australia, gives migration assistance without an active 7-digit MARN on the OMARA register (mara.gov.au).

How to verify safely: Verify Australian practitioners on OMARA (mara.gov.au) and US representatives on state bar directories or the DOJ EOIR accredited list before sharing identity documents.

• Social-media ad offers peak-season international fares 50% below airline direct prices if paid immediately via bank transfer.
• Sends a reservation hold screenshot without a verifiable 13-digit airline e-ticket number.
• Calls back claiming an urgent "ticket re-issuance fee" or "customs clearance surcharge."

How to verify safely: Check IATA accreditation at store.iata.org/ieccaccreditation and enter the 6-character PNR plus 13-digit e-ticket number directly on the operating airline website.

• Unsolicited DM praises your child or your photos and demands $800 to $3,000 today for an "exclusive agency portfolio shoot" or "casting database fee."
• Refuses time to review a written representation agreement.

How to verify safely: Legitimate talent agencies earn commission from booked work, not mandatory upfront photography packages. Check union-franchised agent lists (such as MEAA rules in Australia or SAG-AFTRA in the US).