NEWS RELEASE
SOUTH SIMCOE POLICE SERVICE
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The South Simcoe Police Service is warning residents that Grandparent or Emergency Scams continue to target our communities.
The latest incident occurred today when a senior in Bradford was called by a man posing as a relative seeking thousands of dollars for bail. The would-be victim eventually became suspicious and contacted a family member before any money was exchanged.
The grandparent or emergency scam involves a call from someone pretending to be the victim’s grandchild or a relative that's been arrested and needs cash for bail, a fine, avoid going to jail or face court proceedings. The suspects then typically pass the phone to someone else pretending to be a lawyer or police officer. The victim is then told to go to the bank and withdraw large sums of money to secure the release of their loved one. If the victim agrees to pay the requested amount, suspects will arrange for a “courier” to pick up the funds at the victim’s home or will ask the victim to send cash in the mail. Victims are told not to tell anyone about the transaction.
Protect yourself:
- Hang up the phone and verify the story or call the police.
- Ask questions only the family member would know.
- If you don't recognize the number, don't answer the call.
- Never send money to anyone you don’t know.
- Never give out personal information to the caller.
- Don't be afraid to say no.
Remember:
At no time will a police officer ask you to go to your bank and withdraw a large amount of money - for any reason.
Report these incidents to police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre https://bit.ly/antifraudcentre.
We urge family members to discuss scams with their loved ones and provide these tips to prevent this type of fraud.
From Friday, July 15, 2022, to Monday, July 18, 2022, the South Simcoe Police Service responded to 209 calls for service.
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