Matthew & Evans Rentals, based in Rotherham, has been expelled from the Property Redress Scheme (PRS) after reports of attempted phishing.

Phishing is the fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information or data by acting as a legitimate business.

Evidence online showed Miete Matthew from Matthew & Evans Rentals claiming to be looking for a ‘responsible person’ to take care of his apartment. In exchange, he wanted personal information and monthly rent of ‘€575’.

The vague request for ‘personal information’ without taking appropriate steps was a red flag for the Property Redress Scheme. It says the minimum you would expect to see are details of the property, the agent’s privacy policy and their contact information.

The Property Redress Scheme compliance officer reported the matter to the Property Redress Scheme Board, where immediate action to expel the member was taken, for unlawful practices and not acting according to the standards we expect from our members.

Sean Hooker, Head of Redress commented:

“This is the first time we have come across such a blatant practice and we cannot condone such behaviour. It would be remiss of us to allow them to remain part of our scheme.

“This is a serious breach of professional trust by an agent and is against the law.

“We expect the highest standards of our agents who are members and while mistakes do happen, deliberate attempts to deceive and exploit people will not be tolerated.”