(Lethbridge News Now)

By Justin Goulet

RCMP advising residents of scam targeting grandparents

Mar 30, 2022 | 2:20 PM

EDMONTON, AB – The RCMP is warning Albertans of a new scam making the rounds.

The Alberta RCMP Federal Serious & Organized Crime Branch is referring to the fraudulent activity as a “Grandparent” or “Grandchild” scam. It involves a phone call being placed to the victim, with the caller claiming that the victim’s grandchild is in trouble with the courts or law enforcement and that a payment of cash is required to help them out.

The suspects will often pretend to be police or a judge and caution the victims to not tell anyone about the transaction and that a courier will be sent to their home to pick up the cash in person, or have it sent in the mail.

This month, the RCMP received five complaints of this type of scam occurring, with a total loss of $100,000 to the victims. March also marks Fraud Prevention Month. With that, the Alberta RCMP is reminding residents to:

• Never withdraw or send money to anyone you don’t know;
• If the person is saying a family member is in trouble, confirm with that family member first prior to taking any action;
• If the person claims to be police or a judge, call that police service or court house directly to confirm that situation – police and courts will never demand cash be picked up in person or mailed; and
• Never give out personal information over the phone or online to someone you don’t know—the police or courts will not ask for personal information over the phone.

Meaningful Mementos

Remembering Someone You've Lost at Christmas

Dec 03, 2024

Seasonal Sorrow

How Do You Get Through The Holidays When You're Grieving?

Nov 01, 2024

Upcoming Events at Oliver's

Grief & Loss and Estate Planning Seminars

Oct 02, 2024

Anyone who believes they may have fallen victim to this scam, or any others is asked to contact their local RCMP or police detachment.