Red Deer, Alta. – Red Deer RCMP are warning the public about an increase in reports of the ‘Grandparent Scam’, a deceitful tactic where fraudsters impersonate family members in distress to pressure victims, often seniors, into sending money.
Scammers typically claim there’s been an emergency, such as a car crash, arrest, or legal trouble, and urgently request money to help a “grandchild” or family member. In some cases, fraudsters pretend to be police officers or lawyers to make the story seem more credible.
“No one wants to ignore a family member in trouble, and that’s exactly what scammers try to exploit” says Cst. Cory Riggs, Public Information Officer with Red Deer RCMP. “If someone is urgently demanding money over the phone, that’s a red flag. Police will never ask for money or show up at your door to collect bail. Talk to your loved ones so they feel prepared, not pressured.”
To avoid falling victim to the ‘Grandparent Scam’, Red Deer RCMP encourage residents to follow these tips:
- Pause and verify: Slow down, talk to other family members, and review the situation together. Fraudsters rely on panic and urgency.
- Never give out names or details: Let the caller identify themselves first and don’t offer any personal information.
- Ask personal questions: Verify the caller’s identity with questions only the real person would know.
- Reach out directly: Contact the family member in question using a trusted phone number.
- Refuse pressure tactics: Never send money, gift cards, e-transfers, or cryptocurrency under pressure.
- Know the facts: Law enforcement will never come to your home to collect money or request payment over the phone.
- Beware of caller ID spoofing: Scammers can fake numbers to make it appear they’re calling from a trusted source.
Stay vigilant. Having open conversations with family members, especially seniors, is one of the most effective ways to prevent these scams.
Anyone who believes they’ve been targeted or victimized by fraud is encouraged to contact their local police detachment and report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or online at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca
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