Hemel Hempstead Landlords & Tenants: Six Tips to Stay Safe Online

With more of the renting process now handled digitally, online safety has never been more important for Hemel Hempstead landlords and tenants. Cyber Monday is the perfect reminder to protect your money, data and property communications from scams. Here are six practical ways to stay safe online.

---

Landlords and Tenants: Six Tips to Stay Safe Online

It’s Cyber Monday — the major digital shopping event that follows Black Friday and promises huge online discounts.
But it’s also a day when scammers become more active, taking advantage of the increased flow of money and personal data online.

Both landlords and tenants now handle referencing, deposits, rent payments, maintenance requests, and tenancy documentation digitally.
That convenience is brilliant… until a scammer gets involved.

Here’s how to stay safe this Cyber Monday and all year round.

1. Be wary of ‘too good to be true’ deals

Cyber Monday is prime time for fake listings and bogus offers.
Tenants should be cautious of rental ads that are unusually cheap or ask for payment before you’ve viewed the property.
Landlords can also fall victim to applicants using false IDs or fabricated financial documents.

If something feels off, trust your instincts.

2. Use secure, recognised platforms

Whether you’re signing agreements, completing reference checks or transferring money, stick to trusted systems.
Avoid sending sensitive details through insecure platforms like social media DMs.
Tenants should only pay holding deposits or rent to verified landlords or managing agents.

Watch out for lookalike websites — scammers often mimic legitimate brands.

3. Strengthen passwords (no more “Password123”)

Weak passwords remain one of the biggest digital security risks.
Landlords managing multiple portals and tenants using repair-reporting and payment apps should use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication.

4. Think before you click

Scammers often impersonate trusted companies — energy suppliers, broadband providers, delivery firms, letting agents or even the Government.
Emails asking you to “confirm details” or “avoid charges” are common in December.

Hover over links first and never share login details over email.

5. Protect sensitive documents

IDs, payslips, bank statements and tenancy agreements are prime targets for fraudsters.

Landlords should store documents securely and delete what they no longer need.
Tenants should avoid sending documents through unencrypted apps or messaging platforms.

6. Report anything suspicious immediately

If something doesn’t look right, contact your agent, bank or the platform’s support team immediately.
Quick action can prevent further damage.

Online safety should now be standard practice for every landlord, tenant and managing agent.

If you’d like to know more about how we protect our clients’ data and transactions, please get in touch.