Grandparent scam ramping back up again, caution urged by police

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on November 12, 2024.

asmith@medicinehatnews.com

The Medicine Hat Police Service is reporting a resurgence in the “Grandparent Scam” in the southern Alberta area.

This scam primarily preys on older people who are likely to be grandparents, and calls pretending to be their grandchild in some form of significant distress, such as a car accident, returning from a foreign country, or even in jail, claiming they need money immediately.

“Unfortunately, victims do not verify the story until after the money has been sent,” said MHPS. The victim will be asked not to tell their parents out of fear of getting in more trouble, and will send funds wanting to help their family member.

Variations on the scam are an old neighbour, a friend of the family etc. but predominantly the emergency scam is usually directed towards seniors and grandparents.

To combat this, MHPS is encouraging residents to speak with their senior family members about what to do when they receive a suspicious call. They encourage anyone who receives one of these calls to take the time to verify the caller’s identity by calling the grandchild directly, or other family members if the former can’t be reached, to verify the story.

If the caller claims to be a police officer, lawyer or other official, call the police station or officer directly to confirm the legitimacy of the call, said MHPS.

They remind residents that bail is always collected at the courthouse or correctional centre with receipt of payment provided, and to never give money, gift cards, cryptocurrency or any other form of payment to someone they do not know.

Those who have received such a request for money are encouraged to contact family or the MHPS for advice, and those who have fallen victim to this scam and have not already reported it should contact the MHPS at 403-529-8481.

10
-9