It’s called the grandparent scam, and it preys on the elderly population.
RCMP says it continues to be a concern in New Brunswick.
RCMP say fraudsters will often call potential victims and pretend to be a family member in an emergency situation or say they are a police officer, lawyer or other government official.
The goal is to extort money from the victims to help a family member they claim is in legal trouble.
The latest calls have been reported in the Greater Moncton Region, Kings, Madawaska, and York Counties.
“The key to prevention is awareness,” says Constable Luc Picard, of the Codiac Regional RCMP. “Talk to those in your life who may be susceptible to these types of scams, and educate them on how to avoid them. It’s important to note that in Canada, being bailed out of jail with any type of payment does not exist, and that if someone calls claiming to be in a position of authority, demanding money, it’s a scam. Hang up, and report it right away.”
You can help others protect themselves by sharing the following information:
- Do not provide confidential, personal, or financial information over the phone if you receive one of these calls.
- Hang up immediately if you believe a scammer is calling you, regardless of the phone number they may be calling from.
- If you receive a voicemail from someone looking for money, stating they are the police, a lawyer, or another form of government official, do not call them back.
- Report the call to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501. If you or someone you know falls victim to such a fraud, also contact your local police and financial institution.
