CANTON – The Canton Police Department is warning people about scams involving apartment or house rental listings such as some posted on Craigslist.

The department says it has received four complaints since May from people who have responded to rental ads on Craigslist, two of whom sent money, sight unseen, to someone impersonating an owner or landlord.

The department offers these tips for residents and incoming students and faculty:

• Do not rent or purchase a room, apartment or house sight unseen. Don’t fall for the “I’m out of the area for a while” story.

• Watch out for deals that sound too good to be true. Scammers like to lure in targets by promising low rents, great amenities and other perks.

• See the property in person. Do not send money to someone that you have not met. If you can’t visit the apartment or house yourself, ask someone you trust to go and confirm that it is as advertised.

• Be careful about sharing personal information, including photos, relationship status or any information relating to your personal life.

• Never give out financial information (bank account, Social Security number, PayPal accounts, etc.)

• Never wire funds. Also avoid pre-paid credit cards. Anyone who asks you is likely a scammer.

• Remember that people can hide their identities online. You never really know who you are talking to.