Protect Yourself from the Grandparent Scam:
What You Need to Know
Have you heard about the grandparent scam? It’s a clever and
emotional trick that can leave seniors vulnerable. Let’s break it down with
some important questions and answers:
What is the grandparent scam? The grandparent scam, also known as
an emergency scam, is a fraudulent scheme where a scammer pretends to
be a grandchild in urgent need of money. The scammer might say they’ve
been in an accident, are in jail, or are in another dire situation and need
immediate financial help.
How does it work?
The scammer calls the grandparent, sounding distressed and claiming they
are in trouble. They may use voice-altering technology or just speak in a
panicked manner. They ask for money and request secrecy, often involving
an accomplice posing as a police officer or lawyer to provide instructions for
transferring funds.
How can you spot and avoid this scam?
1. Hang up on suspicious calls: If a call feels off, don’t
hesitate to disconnect.
2. Verify with family: Call your grandchild directly using a
known phone number if you’re unsure about their
situation.
3. Create a secret word: Establish a family password or
secret word. If a caller can’t provide it, they’re likely a
scammer.
💡Pro Tip: Stay informed and share these tips with loved
ones to keep everyone safe from fraudsters!
Stay vigilant and protect yourself from becoming a victim of
this deceitful scam. If you have any doubts, it’s always better
to double-check!
Visit our website at
www.servicewithaheart.com
Our office locations are:
- 3609 Mission Avenue, Suite J, Carmichael, CA 95608
- 6 N Front Street, Rio Vista, CA 94571
You can reach us by phone at (916) 587-1662.