Brits considering renting a home have been issued an urgent warning after cases of fraud surged last year, with one age group deemed particularly vulnerable.

Cases of criminals duping people out of cash for fake rental properties have surged in the past year.

One common scam offers access to properties that do not exist or that are not theirs to rent.

Fraudsters typically use fake details and photos and offer prices well below the market rate.

According to figures released by the Home Office that were taken from the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB), rental fraud losses amounted to nearly £9million last year across nearly 5,000 cases.

Data covering England, Wales and Northern Ireland shows that the 18 to 29-year-old age group accounted for nearly half (48%) of reported rental fraud cases last year, with the 30 to 39-year-old age group accounting for a further 25%.

Now, a minister has urged people to avoid paying money before they have been to a property viewing.

Fraud Minister Lord Hanson said: "Rental fraud is an utterly shameful crime, and this new data should serve as a stark reminder that anyone can be a victim. It doesn't matter how streetwise and tech-savvy you are; fraudsters will get to anyone who doesn't stop and think before handing over their money.

"The Home Office will be making progress on all of those issues through the next phase of our Stop! Think Fraud campaign, and the new, expanded fraud strategy we are developing this year as part of this Government’s Plan for Change."

Oliver Shaw, commander for fraud and cybercrime at the City of London Police, added: “Young people are disproportionally targeted by criminals whilst they look for new accommodation or housing opportunities.

"This can result not only in a devastating financial loss but can also lead to a negative impact on their mental health. The data from the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau highlights clearly how much of a critical issue this is in affecting 18 to 29-year-olds.

"That’s why we, as the national lead force for fraud, continue to support the Stop! Think Fraud campaign’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness of this vital issue.

"We continue to work to highlight emerging cybercrime and fraud types that could be a threat, understanding the importance of reporting, and advocating ways the public can prevent themselves from becoming victims of fraud."