The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service is warning the public that it is receiving multiple reports about grandparent scams targeting senior citizens. “In these scams, fraudsters call a senior citizen and claim to be their grandchild and/or their grandchild’s lawyer,” police said in a news release Thursday. “Typically, they request thousands of dollars for ‘bail’ to get their loved one out of jail or help with some other emergency. The scammer may request a wire transfer, e-transfer or someone posing as a courier service may visit the victim’s home to collect the cash.” Scammers claim urgency Residents should look for calls in which people claim it’s an urgent situation requiring immediate action, hoping to get seniors to act before they reflect on what is happening. “Caller ID can be faked -- the phone number might appear to belong to a trusted source, such as a loved one or even the police,” police said. “Scammers can be convincing. They may alter their voice to sound like a loved one and can be skilled at detailed storytelling.” Residents should hang up in such situations and take steps to independently verify what they have been told. They can also ask personal questions that only their grandchild would know. “Hang up and call your grandchild or another trusted friend or relative using a known phone number,” police said. Do not send money or personal information. Confirm the situation independently before taking any action.” If someone tries to scam you, contact the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service at 705-949-6300 or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website. “By staying alert, informed and spreading the word, you can help prevent fraud and protect your community,” police said.
