Police in Lethbridge say there has been an increase in what is known as ‘grandparent scams’, with the use of artificial intelligence (AI) making scams seem more believable.
The Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) explains that a ‘grandparent scam’, also known as the ‘emergency scam’, involves fraudsters typically targeting seniors by calling them and pretending to be a family member. This is usually a grandchild. Police say the scammer, acting as a family member, tells the victim they are in trouble and need money right away.
The LPS notes the caller may also pretend to be a police officer or a lawyer acting on behalf of the family member. They will ask for cash and then send an associate, posing as a police office, bail bondsman or some other official, to obtain the money. Scammers may seek payment in the form of gift cards, bitcoin or e-transfer as well.
Police say the victims are usually given various reasons for why they must keep quiet and not speak to anyone about the situation.
In recent Lethbridge cases, the LPS says fraudsters are using AI to mimic the voices of grandchildren who tell the victim they are in jail and need $9,000 to $10,000 for bail. Imitating representatives from legitimate local law offices, arrangements are made to pick up the money at the home of the victim.
Police add that victims are being told to let their financial institution know the money is for construction or renovations to mislead them.
The LPS is encouraging residents to talk with their older relatives about the scam and what they should do if they receive a suspicious call. Tips include:
- Always verify the identity of the caller and the legitimacy of their story. Call the grandchild directly and if they cannot be reached, contact their parents, siblings or another relative who can verify the story.
- If a caller says they are a police officer, a lawyer, a judge or any other type of official, call the police station or courthouse directly to confirm that person’s identity and legitimacy of the call.
- Do not use any phone numbers or other contact details provided by the caller to try and verify information.
- Do not provide money, bitcoin, gift cards or any other type of payment to someone you do not know.
- Bail is always paid in-person at the police station, courthouse or correctional centre. Receipt of payment is always provided. Police and court officials will never go to someone’s home to pick up cash.
- Never disclose personal information over the phone to someone you don’t know.
Any individuals who have fallen victim to the ‘grandparent scam’ and have not yet reported it are asked to call police at 403-328-4444.
