(© Can Stock Photo / aletia)(© Can Stock Photo / aletia)
Sarnia

Grandparent scammers targeting Sarnia residents

Sarnia police are investigating three incidents of the infamous Grandparent Scam over a 24 hour period.

Police are advising residents to alert elderly family members about the scam in order to protect them from becoming a victim.

The Grandparent Scam usually targets seniors and is done either by phone or online.

Police said the scam often involves the scammer pretending to be a grandchild, niece, nephew or close family member in trouble, such as a car crash or they've been arrested and need money for bail.

The scammer may ask for a money transfer or prepaid gift cards.

In the instances in Sarnia within the last 24 hours, police said the scammer is attending the victim's residence by sending an unwitting courier to pick-up payment.

You're also advised to hang up if you get such a call, and contact that family member directly to confirm.

Residents are also reminded to be careful about what you share online, as scammers can get names and details about your loved ones through social media.

If you are or believe you may be a victim of fraud or know someone who may have been, contact the Sarnia Police Service to report.

You can also report such crimes to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) at 1-888-495-8501 or online on the Fraud Reporting System (FRS), even if a financial loss did not occur.

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