Relationships And Family
Grandparent scam
A fake emergency call targeting family concern.
What it means
A scammer pretends to be a grandchild, child, lawyer, police officer, or hospital worker and says money is needed immediately.
Example
Someone calls saying your granddaughter caused an accident and needs money for a lawyer before anyone finds out.
Warning signs
- The caller asks for secrecy.
- The emergency cannot be independently confirmed.
- Payment is requested through unusual methods.
- The caller refuses to let you speak normally with the family member.
Safer next steps
- Pause before reacting.
- Call the family member directly.
- Call another relative to confirm.
- Report the attempt if money was requested.