Strathcona County RCMP Warns The Public About The Grandparent Scam

July 12, 2024

Strathcona County RCMP warns the public about the Grandparent Scam

Strathcona County, Alta. - The Grandparent Scam, a deceitful tactic preying on the emotions of victims to extort money under the guise of a family emergency, has been on the rise. Fraudsters impersonate family members in distress, often claiming to need immediate financial assistance for fines, bail, or legal fees. In some instances, scammers pose as law enforcement or legal representatives to deceive individuals into sending cash or providing personal information.

"They tug at the heart strings and try to get the victim to act quickly," says Sgt. Shayne Hartwell, Strathcona County RCMP. “Talk to your family members, especially seniors, and raise awareness about this scam to prevent falling victim to it."

To protect yourself from falling prey to the Grandparent Scam, follow these tips:

  • Slow things down, reach out to other relatives and review the situation together, and contact authorities if need be. Fraudsters create a sense of urgency.
  • Never offer information to the caller (e.g., if you believe it might be a family member calling, don't say the person's name before they identify themselves).
  • Ask the caller personal questions that only the real person would know.
  • Attempt to contact the family member in question.
  • Refuse to send e-transfer money, gift cards, credit card numbers, crypto currency, such as Bitcoin, or anything else of value in 'urgent situations.'
  • Be careful to not drop their guard because the number on their caller ID looks familiar or legitimate. Scammers can spoof telephone numbers and make it appear they're calling from a trusted source.

Stay vigilant and informed to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes like the Grandparent Scam. Remember, awareness is key to prevention.

Anyone who thinks they could be a victim, knows someone who could be a victim, or has information about these scams, is encouraged to contact their local police detachment and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or online at https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm.