THE CITY government of Baguio cautioned students looking for boarding or lodging houses to be vigilant against scammers.

Last week, a concerned homeowner alerted the office of Mayor Benjamin Magalong that her residence had been used by a poseur who victimized students in need of boarding and lodging facilities for their in-person classes.

According to the City Tourism Operations Office, most of the victims negotiated with persons who use downloaded photos and information of legitimate accommodation establishments pretending to be co-owners or agents.

After receiving the reservation fee or down payment, the scammers will block the victims’ social media accounts.

Students were advised to talk with the owners of establishments and boarding places first before paying for their reservations.

“Make sure that you are transacting with the owners or owner-authorized agents of the establishments and not with poseurs,” the city government said. “They could negotiate with the owners of the establishment personally and onsite.”

Students were also told to contact Baguio City’s Permits and Licensing Division to help them confirm the names of registered owners and their contact number thru 619-3184.