The Fraud Squad of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service in collaboration with the Housing Development Corporation (HDC), wishes to alert citizens to a series of fraudulent schemes targeting individuals seeking affordable housing.
According to the Fraud Squad, scammers have been impersonating HDC officials, advertising homes through social media, and demanding upfront payments from unsuspecting victims.
The HDC is advising that these scams prey on the hopes of families who simply want a safe and affordable place to live. TTPS and HDC are also warning persons that the Corporation does not request payments via WhatsApp, Gmail, or social media.
All transactions must be conducted at our Head Office under official procedures.
Scam Tactics Identified:
- Fake advertisements on Facebook offering two-bedroom homes at below-market prices.
- Requests for upfront payments ranging from TT$12,000 to TT$13,000.
- Use of unofficial email addresses and WhatsApp-only communication.
- Pressure tactics claiming limited availability of housing units.
Official HDC Policy:
- All payments must be made at the HDC Cashier’s Unit, South Quay, Port of Spain.
- No HDC official will request meetings outside HDC offices or ask for payments through personal accounts.
- Housing applications are free of charge and processed only through official channels.
The TTPS and HDC urge citizens to:
- Avoid making payments to individuals claiming to expedite housing applications.
- Verify all communication through HDC’s official phone lines and website.
- Report suspicious activity to the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service Fraud Squad.