AARP Fraud Watch

The Grandparent Scam

Dear Ben,

You get a frantic call from someone claiming to be your grandson or
granddaughter. The caller says there’s an emergency and asks you to send
money right away. But there’s a good chance this is an imposter trying
to steal your money through the “grandparent scam.”

How it Works:

Scammers usually claim to be in a “help me” situation, such as
being stuck with a broken down car or needing money to get somewhere. The
caller may pose as your grandchild, or a law enforcement officer or attorney
calling on your grandchild’s behalf; whatever it takes to sound
convincing.

What You Should Know:

  * These scams often happen in the middle of the night, to catch you while
    you’re not fully awake, making it easier to get you in a high state
    of emotion and more susceptible. It’s what con artists refer to as
    getting victims “under the ether.”
  * The caller may have personal information such as family member’s
    names that they could have picked up on social media sites.
  * The caller will likely ask that you send the money by wire transfer - the
    favorite method of con artists.

What You Should Do:

  * Try to reach the person the caller is claiming to be directly. If you
    can’t reach him or her, contact a friend or family member to try and
    validate the emergency.
  * Ask some questions that would be hard for an imposter to answer, like a
    pet’s name or a mother’s birthday.
  * Don’t send money unless you’re sure the situation is real.

The grandparent scam can be financially and emotionally devastating. Take it
from these grandparents who were victimized. Don’t let it happen to you.
Please be sure to share this alert with family and friends.

Sincerely,

Kristin Keckeisen
Fraud Watch Network

P.S. Spotted a scam?  Tell us about it.  Our scam-tracking map gives you
information about the latest scams targeting people in your state.
You’ll also find first-hand accounts from scam-spotters who are sharing
their experiences so you know how to protect yourself and your family.

The AARP Fraud Watch Network connects you to the latest information about ID
theft and fraud so you can safeguard your personal information and your
pocketbook.

Visit the site ›

GET HELP:

If you or someone you know has been a victim of identity theft or fraud,
contact the AARP Foundation Fraud Fighter Center at 877-908-3360.

FORWARD TO A FRIEND:

Share this alert with your family and friends so they know how to spot the
common strategies scammers use and have the tools they need to defend
themselves against their tricks.

Forward this alert ›

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