BRAMPTON, Ontario (Diya TV) — A 27-year-old Brampton woman is facing dozens of fraud charges after investigators accused her of running a rental scam that left victims without homes and out more than $60,000.
Peel Regional Police said the alleged fraud took place between May 2025 and February 2026. During that time, investigators say the woman advertised rental properties, including basement apartments, on several social media platforms. Many people believed the listings were legitimate. As a result, they signed rental agreements and paid deposits for the first and last month’s rent.
However, the promised homes were never available. Instead, victims arrived with their belongings only to learn they had nowhere to move in. In many cases, they had already left their previous homes. Consequently, they faced unexpected financial losses and housing challenges.
Police identified 17 separate incidents connected to the investigation. Together, those cases resulted in financial losses of more than $60,000. Investigators also said none of the victims received the rental units they were promised. In addition, they did not get their money back.
Authorities arrested Savreet Kaur, 27, of Brampton on July 13. She now faces 38 counts of fraud over $5,000 and one count of obstructing police. The charges have not been proven in court. Following her arrest, police held her in custody for a bail hearing before the Ontario Court of Justice.
According to investigators, the alleged scheme relied on online rental advertisements that appeared genuine. Interested renters contacted the advertiser and completed rental agreements. They then transferred deposits to secure the properties. Soon afterward, they prepared to move into what they believed would become their new homes.
Instead, they discovered the advertised residences were unavailable. Therefore, many victims lost both their deposits and access to stable housing. Some also had to search for emergency accommodations after moving out of their previous residences.
Rental fraud has become a growing concern as more people search for housing through online platforms and social media. Scammers often create convincing listings by using attractive photos, competitive prices, and urgent payment requests. As a result, renters may feel pressure to act quickly before verifying important details.
Police said this investigation highlights the importance of checking rental listings carefully before sending money. While many online advertisements are legitimate, some are designed to deceive unsuspecting renters. Therefore, authorities encourage people to confirm property ownership, inspect rental units whenever possible, and avoid making payments until they verify the information.
Investigators also urged renters to remain cautious when using social media to search for housing. They advised people to research landlords, review rental documents carefully, and question listings that appear unusually affordable or require immediate deposits. Taking these extra steps may help reduce the risk of becoming a victim.
In addition, Peel Regional Police encouraged residents to learn more about fraud prevention through the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
