The grandparent or emergency fraud: How to identify it and avoid it

Langley RCMP is looking to provide the public with insight on the increase in grandparent or emergency frauds. Police are looking to assist the public in identifying and understanding how grandparent or emergency frauds may look and also how to avoid them.

How to identify the fraud:

These frauds usually begin with a distressed phone call from someone who is pretending to be a grandchild or a loved one. The fraudster may claim to be in some trouble or indicate to you that something terrible has happened and they need money. The fraudster will plead with you not to tell anyone of their circumstances.

In some instances, you will find there may be two fraudsters on the call, one posing to be your loved one and another posing to be a police officer, lawyer, or someone with some authority. This second fraudster is used to convince you that your loved one or grandchild is in trouble.

The fraudster will then provide you with ways on how to get them the money. This could range from someone attending your residence to pick up cash, e-transfers, money wires, and even sending gift cards.

How to avoid the fraud:

Consider taking some of the following steps to avoid being a victim of fraud:

• If you receive a call like this, do not give money, gift cards, or e-transfer any money. 
• Avoid answering calls from unknown or blocked numbers.
• Verify the caller by asking the caller probing questions to which only you would know the answers too. An example of this type of question could be getting the caller to confirm the last time you met them. 
• Call or message another family member or friend who could help you identify whether this is a legitimate phone call.
• Do not provide the caller with your personal or banking information such as your credit card information.
• Educate your friends and family of emergency or grandparent frauds. By doing so, you will help in creating an awareness of this issue. 

If anyone has been a victim of a grandparent or emergency fraud, please contact the Langley RCMP at 604-532-3200, we are here to assist you.