Threshold, ICOS, and AMLÉ launch Scamwatch 2026 toolkit to help student unions and accommodation officers tackle rental scams
- New Scamwatch toolkit distributed to student unions, accommodation officers and others supporting student renters
- Toolkit includes materials translated into Spanish and Portuguese to better support international students
Wednesday, 6 May 2026: National housing charity Threshold has partnered with the Irish Council for International Students (ICOS) and Aontas na Mac Léinn in Éirinn (AMLÉ) to launch its annual Scamwatch campaign, with a renewed focus on equipping those who work directly with student renters, including international students, to help prevent accommodation scams.
As part of the joint 2026 campaign, a dedicated Scamwatch toolkit for student unions, accommodation officers and other frontline student supports is being rolled out. The toolkit includes digital material and other resources designed to help colleges, universities and student representatives share scam awareness messages with students from Ireland and abroad.
The campaign comes as students continue to face intense pressure in the accommodation market. With purpose-built student accommodation in short supply and often priced beyond students’ reach, many are being pushed into the wider rental market, where they can be more exposed to increasingly sophisticated scams. The four main student cities of Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway were facing a shortfall of at least 38,900 student bed spaces at the end of 2025, according to recent figures. That figure rises to 53,000 if students in Dublin are assumed to need accommodation within a shorter commuting distance of college.
Against this backdrop, Threshold continues to support students at risk of rental scams through early intervention, practical guidance and dedicated resources. The charity has helped many students avoid fraud and significant financial loss through timely advice and scam awareness.
Commenting on the campaign, Threshold Campaigns Officer Cat Clark, said: “Student unions, accommodation officers and other frontline supports are often the people students turn to first when they are worried about housing. Through this year’s Scamwatch toolkit, we want to equip them with clear, practical resources they can use to help students spot red flags and avoid being caught by increasingly convincing scams.
“While there are practical steps renters can take to protect themselves, the key message is simple: if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Anyone worried about a possible scam should contact Threshold through our website or freephone 1800 454 454.”
International students amongst most vulnerable
ICOS works to promote and protect the rights and welfare of international students who choose Ireland as a study destination. International students can be particularly vulnerable to exploitation, especially where they do not have a local support network or are trying to secure accommodation before arriving in Ireland.
Brian Hearne, Policy and Communications Manager, at ICOS, said: “For many international students, the search for accommodation begins before they arrive in Ireland, which can make it harder to verify listings and easier for scammers to take advantage. Scammers exploit urgency and inexperience, and that is exactly what this campaign is designed to counter. Our goal is to equip students with the information they need to spot the warning signs, avoid fraud and protect themselves. No one should be left out of pocket or without a place to live because they were misled by a fake advert.”
Shortage and high cost of accommodation is making some students an easy target
Student representatives say the shortage and high cost of accommodation is creating ideal conditions for fraudsters to target those under pressure to find somewhere to live, particularly first-time renters.
Bryan O’Mahony from Aontas na Mac Léinn in Éirinn (AMLÉ), said: “Many students across Ireland are already dealing with extremely difficult housing situations, and it is completely unacceptable that some are also being targeted by scammers.
“Student unions have a vital role to play in helping students spot the warning signs early and directing them to trusted support. AMLÉ advises everyone looking for student accommodation to check the dedicated Threshold webpage and to contact AMLÉ or their local Students’ Union if they need help or support on this or any issue.”
Scamwatch 2026: The 3 Rules to Avoid Rental Scams
- Inspect the Property in Person
Visit the property in person and take a picture of the landlord or letting agent’s photo ID before making any payments. Don’t rely solely on online photos or virtual tours. - Use Secure Payment Methods and a Contract
Use payment methods that offer protection. Avoid cash or transfers to unverified or foreign bank accounts. Get a written contract that outlines rent, deposits, and fees. - Trust Your Instinct and Seek Help
If it feels off, it probably is. Don’t rush. If in doubt, contact Threshold for free, expert advice.
ENDS