The Lennox & Addington County OPP is warning residents of a potential increase in emergency/grandparent scams, in the L&A County area.
The scammers target seniors by playing upon their emotions and fear of a loved one being in police custody.
In the typical emergency/grandparent scam, the victim will receive a frantic phone call from someone claiming to be a grandchild or loved one.
The caller will explain that they are involved in some sort of mishap like a car accident, in police custody, or are having trouble returning from a foreign country and need money right away and will often insist that the victim does not tell anyone.
The call could also involve someone claiming to be a law enforcement official, lawyer, or bailiff.
OPP officials remind people to be careful what you post online.
Scammers can use details shared on social media platforms and dating sites. They can search your online accounts to find real names, real interests, real phone numbers and when you are going to be home or away.
They also remind the public that the OPP would never contact the public to demand cryptocurrency or funds in connection with money laundering or major criminal investigations.
Be aware of some warning signs:
· Urgency: The scammer always makes the request sound very urgent, which may cause the victim to not verify the story.
· Fear: The scammer plays on the victim’s emotions by generating a sense of fear. For instance, they may say, “I am scared, and I need help from you.”
· Secrecy: The scammer pleads with the victim not to tell anyone about the situation, such as, “Please don’t tell Dad, he would be so mad.”
· Request for Money: Money can be requested by money transfer or in some cases the scammer sends someone to your home to pick up the payment.
To avoid becoming a victim, check with another family member or trusted friend to verify the information before sending money or providing credit card information by phone or email.
If you suspect fraud, contact:
· Your local police
· OPP at 1-888-310-1122
· Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or https://ontariocrimestoppers.ca/
· Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre via the online reporting system or by phone at 1-888-495-8501
For more fraud prevention resources, visit: antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca
