College students are being warned about potential accommodation scams in the lead up to the new term.
The Union of Students in Ireland, housing charity Threshold, and the Irish Council for International Students (ICOS) have joined forces for a new campaign highlighting the dangers.
They say every year hundreds of students fall victim to fake "landlords" and scammers conning them out of their savings.
John-Mark McCafferty, CEO of Threshold, has these tips for students on the hunt for housing.
"Inspect the property in-person, and whenever possible visit the property and the landlord in-person before making any payments.
"Avoid only relying on online photos or virtual tours. Do ask for a contract and do seek advice and consult with student support services and unions, so the ICOS, the Union of Students of Ireland and Threshold in terms of accommodation offers."
