More than $20,000 have been taken across 麻豆精选 and West 麻豆精选 in recent weeks as "grandparents scams" are back on the rise.
鈥淭hese recent incidents are unique in that one of the suspects is actually attending in person to collect the cash, whereas these types of scams are usually faceless and done via an online transaction,鈥� said 麻豆精选 RCMP's Cpl. Michael Gauthier.
According to officers, most of the incidents are the same, where the scammer will impersonate a grandchild or lawyer and state they need money to secure the grandchild's bail from an arrest. Once the grandparent has withdrawn the money, the scammers are arranged to pick it up in set locations, or even the victim's residence. Also in most cases, a female covering her face have been arriving to collect the money and leaves on foot.
鈥淚t is imperative that we have these tough conversations with our vulnerable family members to avoid these types of incidents,鈥� added Gauthier. 鈥淔ortunately, we do have some reports advising us of the attempt only, foiled by the individual calling their grandchild directly or family to confirm their well-being. We have also had cases where an astute bank employee suspected something suspicious and through conversation was able to identify the scam and ultimately prevent them from carrying through with it.鈥�
Anyone who may have fallen for the scam, have been targeted, or know of a similar incident are asked to call 麻豆精选 RCMP as they are continuing to investigate these happenings and exploring all leads.
If you or anyone you know is concerned about a money request over the phone or via e-mail or social media, please call someone you trust or the RCMP.
