Here’s how they work:
You get a call: “Grandma, I need money for bail.” Or money for a medical bill. Or some other kind of trouble. The caller says it’s urgent — and tells you to keep it a secret.
But is the caller who you think it is? Scammers are good at pretending to be someone they’re not. They can be convincing: sometimes using information from social networking sites, or hacking into your loved one’s email account, to make it seem more real. And they’ll pressure you to send money before you have time to think.
Here’s what you can do:
- Verify who the call is coming from:If you receive a call from someone claiming to be your grandchild, check the caller ID. Is the call coming from their phone number? Try to remain calm and ask questions only your grandchild would know the answers to such as the name of the family pet, or where they went on vacation last. You can also hang up then call your grandchild or their parents directly to verify if they are ok.
- Use caution with urgent requests for money:Scammers will create a sense of urgency to pressure you into making quick decisions. Take a moment to stop and ask yourself if the situation seems genuine before you send any money.
- Reach out to another family member:If you receive a call you are wary of, don’t hesitate to reach out to another family member to verify the story. One simple phone call could be the thing that stops you from falling victim to a scam.
- Do NOT send money to someone you don’t know:Use extreme caution with any request to send money to someone you don’t know. Legitimate companies will never ask you to send cash, crypto, or gift cards.
- Report suspicious behavior:If you feel you have been a target of the Grandparent scam, or any other scam you should report it to law enforcement and your financial institution immediately.
- Set a safe word: Pick a phrase or word with family members that includes details only you would know. Ask for this word or phrase to confirm if the person calling is your relative.
- Know the law: Court appointed couriers don’t exist. If someone asks to come to your house and pick up a payment, it is a scam.
