RCMP cautioning the public about telephone “Grandparent Scam”
LINDSAY GOSS
Pass Herald Reporter
Crowsnest Pass RCMP received a complaint involving the “Grandparent Scam” and suspect the con artists are likely to hit the Crowsnest Pass area again. The con artist contacted the senior advising her that her grandson was hurt and in need of money. Our complainant quickly realized it was a scam and contacted police. RCMP want to remind the public to be alert to such scams as this particular one appears to be surfacing for a second time in the Crowsnest Pass area.
The Canadian Anti- Fraud Centre states that con artists will make pleas such as “I’m in Jail,” “I’m in the hospital,” or “I’ve been in a car accident,” while also saying, “don’t tell dad, he would kill me if he found out, please send money ASAP. I’m scared.”
Wanting to help their Grandchild, the victim sends money and subsequently, the con artist wins.
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre can be found at www.antifraudcente.ca or www.phonebusters.com. It contains information on a variety of scam types. The CAFC is a national call centre where victims can report complaint that may be used to assist in investigations.
Listed are a few basic suggestions from the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s website to prevent falling victim of con artists.
Do not believe that everyone calling with an exciting promotion or investment opportunity is trustworthy, especially if the caller in unknown, do not invest or purchase a product or service without carefully checking out the investment, product, service and the company, do not be fooled by the promise if a valuable prize in return for a low cost purchase, or not be pressured to send money to take advantage of a special offer or deal, do not be hurried into sending money to claim a prize that is available for only a few hours, do not disclose information about your finances, bank accounts or credit cards, for not be afraid to hang up the phone, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre if contacted by someone who promised great prizes with the catch that money must be sent first in order to receive the prizes and finally, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre if contacted by someone who has promised a prize, but a product but be purchased prior to receiving the prize.
