Photo: Halton Police
Watch out for the Grandparent scam, the Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) says there’s been another increase in cases.
To combat the increase, the HRPS has announced a new campaign with hopes of raising awareness in Emergency or Grandparent Scams being seen across the region.
The HRPS has developed a new poster that will soon be on display at most major banks in the Halton region. The poster is designed to serve as a warning to potential victims attending their banks to withdraw funds. It outlines some of the common scenarios fraudsters are using to convince victims to give them money.
In March, FM 101 Milton spoke with Detective Derek Gray with the Halton Regional Police Service Elder Abuse and Financial Crime unit for Fraud Prevention Month. He says residents should be aware of what is often referred to as the ‘Grandson Scam’.
READ: Halton Police arrest Montreal man after he scammed thousands out of older residents
He adds that the people will ask for money to cover non-existent charges. It might be $5000 to cover some fake legal bills, and that it has to be in cash. Someone will come to pick up the money, and then they could call again asking for me money. They’ll say that someone was injured in the accident and now there are more legal bills. The scammers will try to get as much money as possible out of it.
The Regional Fraud Unit has noted a recent increase in these types of scams being reported over the past couple months and is concerned the increase may continue with the holiday season approaching. Police would encourage residents to take time during the holidays to speak with their older family members about this ongoing scam.
Detective Gray says many of the scams they cover will feature a theme of secrecy. The fraudsters will propose being secretive about the money because “I don’t want my parents to be mad.” He says you’ll have to put your brain to work when it comes to these scams.
READ: Montreal man arrested in Milton-based grandparent scam
Tips to protect yourself:
- Attempt to verify the caller’s identity – do not volunteer any information, and further ask very specific probing questions about the caller.
- Request to call back the initial caller – then independently find the number of the police service (or other purported agency in question) and call them directly to clarify the situation. If unsure, call your local police service and ask them for assistance.
- Attempt to directly call the loved one in question and clarify the matter with them.
Remember – Fraudsters will count on your good will to act quickly and help a loved one. Take your time and use above noted tips to protect yourself.
Additional information on frauds and scams can be found here, or through the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website.
