Background

Scammers typically pose as a grandchild or relative in distress over the phone. They might claim to be in an accident, arrested abroad, or facing some other urgent situation requiring immediate financial assistance. The scammer often creates a sense of urgency by pressuring the grandparent not to tell other family members or the authorities.

AARP reports that in 2021 alone, over $332 million was lost to grandparent scams, highlighting the devastating impact on victims.

How to Spot the Scam

• Urgency and Secrecy: Scammers pressure victims for immediate action and discourage them from contacting other family members.

• Unfamiliar Details: The scammer might struggle with details about the grandchild's life or use vague language.

• Out-of-Character Behavior: Grandchildren in genuine emergencies wouldn't ask grandparents to keep it a secret or avoid contacting parents.

• Unusual Caller ID: Scammers can manipulate phone numbers to appear legitimate. Verify the call by reaching out to the grandchild directly using a known phone number.

Recommended Actions

• Take a Deep Breath: Don't rush into sending money.

• Verify the Story: Contact the grandchild directly through a trusted phone number, not one provided by the caller.

• Involve Other Family Members: Discuss the situation with your spouse, children, or another trusted family member.

• Report the Scam: Report the scam attempt to the Federal Trade Commission (https://www.ftc.gov/) and consider filing a police report.

Empower Yourself and Your Loved Ones:

• Talk to Your Grandchildren: Discuss scams with your grandchildren and establish a plan for how they might contact you in a real emergency.

• Be Wary of Unsolicited Calls: Don't share personal information or financial details over the phone unless you've initiated the call.

By being aware of these tactics and taking precautions, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to this heartbreaking scam. Remember, it's okay to say no and take the time to verify any request before sending money.

If you suspect you've encountered a grandparent or relative scam, remember, ScamWiz is here to help. Upload a screenshot of the suspicious message and get our AI-powered analysis to assess the likelihood of a scam and receive recommended actions.