Housing voucher scam impersonates Ohio agency

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – Imposter scams continue to be a problem for consumers, as a state agency issued a warning about a scam on social media that used its name to take advantage of vulnerable Ohioans.

The Ohio Housing Finance Agency, formerly a division of the Ohio Department of Development, was established to help first-time homebuyers, renters, and senior citizens find quality, affordable housing that meets their needs.

Recently, the legitimate agency's logo appeared on a Facebook page -- Ohio Housing Development Authority -- promoting a waitlist for Section 8/Housing Choice Voucher Programs.

The post also referenced the agency's offices and a website, which people can use to register for the vouchers.

But OHFA said it's all a scam, according to a release. In a statement, Director of Public Affairs for the Ohio Housing Finance Agency, Penny Martin, said:

"We want Ohioans to be aware that the Ohio Housing Development Authority is not associated with the state of Ohio. It is promoting fraudulent information regarding Section 8/Housing Choice Voucher Programs. Ohioans should disregard any information they have received from this organization. The Ohio Housing Finance Agency does not issue Section 8/Housing Choice Vouchers. Ohioans that need a housing voucher should contact their local public housing authority."

If an individual comes across a suspicious social media page or post like this, they should contact the Ohio Attorney General's Office, said Consumer Educator Ryan Lippe.

"If you report a scam to our office and tell your neighbors and friends and coworkers to do the same thing, we start getting together an arsenal of stories out there that we then can start to educate the rest of the population, so they avoid the scams," Lippe said.

Ohioans can also use the Attorney General's Office as a reference if they believe they are the victim of fraud. The office's website offers recommendations on next steps. Scams can also be reported through the website.

Additionally, Ohioans who need to apply for housing vouchers should contact their local public housing authority.