What are Grandparent Scams?
Grandparent scams are a type of scam in which criminals pretend to be a family member, usually a grandchild, to trick elderly victims into sending them money. The scammers call and claim they are the grandchild in some kind of trouble or emergency. They make up dramatic stories about being arrested, in an accident, or even kidnapped while traveling abroad. The stories can vary slightly, but the scam always involves impersonating a family member who supposedly needs money quickly.
How It Works
Scammers research their targets on social media platforms such as Facebook before calling them on the phone. They use the information they find to make their stories more believable. On the call, the scammers will often disguise their voices in some way, such as sobbing or muffling their voices. After speaking to the scammer pretending to be their grandchild, the elderly victim will be transferred to another scammer. The second scammer pretends to be someone who can help their grandchild, such as law enforcement or an attorney.
What Do They Want?
The second scammer will say that they can help the victim’s grandchild, but only if the victim sends them money immediately. They urge the victim to act quickly and not to tell anyone– otherwise, the victim’s grandchild may be in legal trouble. The scammers will usually request payment in the form of gift cards. However, some scammers will even send a courier to pick up money from the victim in person.
What Can I Do to Stay Safe?
Follow the tips below and share them with your family members to stay safe from phone scams:
- Most scams involve being asked to take urgent action. If you are contacted by a family member who claims to need money urgently, call other family members to confirm the story before sending any money.
- Be cautious of sharing personal information or family details on social media, as scammers can use this information to make their stories seem more credible.
- Be very skeptical if asked to make a payment using an unusual payment method. Gift cards or someone coming to your home to pick up money from you would not be a normal way of paying an attorney or other legal fees.