Classic scam schemes
1. Abroad trick: 'I'm abroad, wire deposit, key comes by mail'
2. Fake listings: Copied photos from real apartments
3. Advance fee fraud: 'Reservation fee' before viewing
4. Identity theft: Too much data requested before signing
Warning signs
Price far below market, landlord abroad, viewing not possible, pressure for quick payment, only ID copy for 'reservation', broken German in emails, Western Union/Bitcoin as payment, no phone number.
How to protect yourself
Never pay without viewing and signed contract. Reverse image search photos (Google Images). If suspicious: check email headers, view land registry, ask neighbors. Deposit only to German account. Report suspicions to police.
Signs of legitimacy
Landlord reachable and willing to talk, in-person viewing possible, lease before payment, deposit to escrow account (Mietkautionskonto), handover protocol, landlord shows ID at signing.