ADOH warns those looking for subsidized housing

Arizona, a southwestern U.S. state is warning those looking for subsidized housing.
The Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH) is warning consumers who are seeking Section 8 housing to be cautious of fraudulent solicitations and websites.

Section 8 housing, also known as the housing choice voucher program, is the federal government’s major program for assisting very low-income families, the elderly and the disabled to afford decent, safe and sanitary housing in the private market, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

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The Federal Trade Commission is reporting that scammers have posted fake Section 8 waiting-list lottery sites that ask for personal information and even fees, but don’t enroll victims on lists. Some offer housing listings in exchange for a month’s rent via wire transfer or prepaid card.

These fake websites look similar to registration sites for Section 8 waiting lists; however, housing authorities do not charge fees, and they will not reach out to you by phone or email to suggest that you join a waiting list. A housing authority also will never ask you to wire money or pay with a prepaid card. Those are sure signs of a scam.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued tips to help consumers avoid becoming victim to this scam:

Citizens are advised to contact their local housing authority to find out how to register for the Section 8 waiting list bearing in mind that housing authorities do not charge fees, and they won’t reach out to you by phone or email to suggest that you join a waiting list. A housing authority also will never ask you to wire money or pay with a prepaid card.

Treat your Social Security number and other personal information, such as credit card number, like cash.