Renters have been issued a warning by Thames Valley Police and Trading Standards about potential scams.

These scams often involve fraudsters posing as landlords or property managers, seeking money for non-existent or unavailable properties, or properties which are not theirs to rent out.

'Phantom rentals' are among the more common cons, where criminals attract renters with photos and deals for properties that do not exist or simply are not for rent.

Scammers also often use hijacked adverts, copying legitimate rental adverts and changing the contact details, directing inquiries to themselves instead of the rightful owner.

Another potential scam is the bait and switch, which sees a property which is unavailable advertised, leading the criminal to then offer a different, often inferior, property.

Thames Valley Police said: "Be aware when looking to rent a room or property to ensure you are protected from being a victim of renting scams in order to protect yourself follow this important advice."

With university students looking to rent properties or rooms at the start of the new academic year, and with these properties being in high demand. Thames Valley Police urged people to take its advice

It added: "Take care when entering into an agreement to rent a room or property, ensure the room is available as advertised and you meet the landlord in person before paying any deposits."