Equipment Hire Scam
In this scam, tools, machinery, or event equipment are advertised for hire at low rates, but the lister demands a deposit before collection for items that do not exist or are not theirs to rent.
Quick verdict
What this scam usually looks like
In this scam, tools, machinery, or event equipment are advertised for hire at low rates, but the lister demands a deposit before collection for items that do not exist or are not theirs to rent.
Example message pattern
This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.
Red flags to watch for
- A deposit demanded before viewing or collection
- Rates well below established hire firms
- A lister who cannot show the equipment
- Payment by transfer or gift card
- Pressure citing high demand
What to do
- Use established equipment hire firms with real premises
- Inspect equipment before paying a deposit
- Verify the lister controls the equipment
- Pay by traceable methods with a written agreement
If you already clicked or replied
- If you paid a deposit, contact your bank or payment provider to recover it
- Report the listing and lister to the platform
- Keep messages and payment records as evidence
- Report the scam to your local fraud authority
What not to do
- Do not pay a deposit before viewing equipment
- Do not pay by irreversible methods
- Do not let demand pressure rush you
Similar scams
Car Leasing Scam
A car leasing scam advertises a brand-new lease or a 'lease takeover' with eye-catching low monthly payments. Once you are interested, the bogus dealer or broker asks for an upfront deposit or an 'admin', 'processing' or 'reservation' fee by bank transfer. After the money is sent, no vehicle and no proper contract ever arrive, and the contact goes quiet. Verifying that the dealer or broker is genuinely registered is the most reliable safeguard.
Moving Company Scam
This scam uses a low quote to win your booking, then demands a large deposit or sharply raises the price once your belongings are loaded. Some movers hold your items hostage until you pay sudden extra fees that were never mentioned at the start.
Rogue Trader Scam
A rogue trader is a doorstep or online 'tradesperson' offering driveway, roofing, gardening or repair work at a tempting price. They press for a large cash deposit upfront, then carry out poor or unfinished work, 'discover' extra problems that were never there, and inflate the final bill. Older homeowners are often targeted. Taking time to get the offer in writing and to compare quotes can reveal the pressure tactics for what they are.
Frequently asked questions
How do I hire equipment safely?
Is a cheap daily rate a warning sign?
I paid a deposit and there's no equipment. What now?
Should I ever pay before collection?
Last reviewed: June 2026