SOCIAL media users have been urged not to fall for a recent scam over tenancy deposit payments.

The warning came from North Wales Police on Wednesday evening.

A spokesman said: "Detectives in our Economic Crime Unit are warning the public to be vigilant against a scam that is taking place through Facebook Marketplace and other online platforms.

"There has recently been an increase in the amount of fraud committed whereby potential tenants are paying a deposit to view a property that either doesn’t exist or is already occupied.

"Often, people who are already renting a property have had visits from people wanting to view, who have all paid deposits ranging from £125 to £1,000."

DC Rachel Roberts added: "The property rental market is currently very competitive, and potential tenants may be fooled into thinking that paying a deposit will help them secure a property.

"‘Legitimate landlords will never ask you to pay money just to view a property, and we would encourage anyone who receives such a request to contact us via our live webchat or on 101."