The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service is warning the public 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.
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.
What You Need to Know
- Scammers thrive on urgency. They will pressure you to act immediately. Take a moment to pause and think.
- 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.
- Scammers can be convincing. They may alter their voice to sound like a loved one and can be skilled at detailed storytelling.
Protect Yourself and Loved Ones
- Hang up. If a call feels suspicious, ending it isn’t rude — it’s the smart thing to do.
- Verify their story. Ask personal questions only your grandchild would know.
- Contact family. Hang up and call your grandchild or another trusted friend or relative using a known phone number.
- Do not send money or personal information. Confirm the situation independently before taking any action.
- Report the scam. Contact the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
- Talk to older family members and loved ones about common scams and how to recognize them.
How to Report
If you suspect a scam or fraudulent activity:
- Call the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service at 705-949-6300, visit in person, or report online.
- Report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre for further support and resources.
Stay Informed
Stay informed about recent scams affecting Canadians, tips to protect yourself, and steps to take if you’ve been victimized by visiting the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website.
By staying alert, informed, and spreading the word, you can help prevent fraud and protect your community.
