Niagara police have released a shocking audio recording of a real phone call of a “grandparent scam” to increase public awareness and reduce future incidents.
Niagara police have released a shocking audio recording of a real phone call of a “grandparent scam” to increase public awareness and reduce future incidents.
Investigators say a grandparent scam typically involves a fraudster who impersonates a lawyer, police officer, family member or grandchild on phone calls and leads their victims to believe their loved ones are in distress and urgently need money for bail or other fees.
Police say the scams are getting more and more aggressive.
If you receive a call like this, do not wire the money or give the caller any further information. Hang up and call your grandchild or the family member back with their real phone number.
Further information about scams can be found on the NRPS website or at the Canadian Anti-Fraud Website.
Safety tips:
- Never confirm any personal information over the phone.
- Always verify who is calling.
- Don’t be pressured. Stop. Take some time to process what you have been told, to see if it makes sense.
- Ask a trusted friend or family member for their opinion.
- If you’re in doubt, call your local police service.
Seek out information from an official source, educate yourself and then educate three persons in your life who may be vulnerable to becoming victims of scam crime. #NRPMePlus3
If you have any information about suspects involved in the grandparent scam you are asked to contact detectives at 905-688-4111, option 3, 1009076.