Arrest made in grandparent scam, RCMP warns of ongoing risk

Police in Manitoba are warning residents about the grandparent scam after a surge in occurrences, including a recent case resulting in a fraud charge. In 2024, there have been 14 reported instances of the scam in southern Manitoba, with an estimated loss of $70,000. Cpl. Julie Courchaine emphasized the importance of raising awareness about this scam to prevent others from falling victim to it. One recent case involved a 79-year-old woman in which a man claiming to be her grandson stated he needed money for bail after being in a car crash in Winnipeg. The woman was instructed to withdraw $8,000 in cash, which was then picked up by a courier under the guise of being her grandson’s lawyer. The woman eventually realized it was a scam and reported it to the RCMP, leading to the arrest of a suspect wanted in Alberta for fraud.

The 32-year-old man charged with fraud over $5,000 in connection with the grandparent scam was intercepted by RCMP before he could pick up more money from the victim. He had been involved in a scheme in which he convinced the woman to hand over large sums of money under the pretense of helping her grandson. The woman was instructed not to tell anyone about the pickups, but when she became suspicious and sought help from her financial institution, she was informed of the potential scam. This case highlights the need for vigilance and caution when receiving unsolicited requests for funds, especially from individuals claiming to be in distress.

The grandparent scam often involves a caller pretending to be a relative in urgent need of money, whether due to a medical emergency, legal trouble, or other fabricated situations. The scammers rely on the victim’s emotional response and desire to help their loved one to convince them to send money. In some cases, multiple calls and requests for money are made, further pressuring the victim to comply with the demands. The scammers may also use tactics such as claiming to be lawyers or law enforcement officials to add credibility to their story and prevent the victim from seeking outside help.

The RCMP is urging the public to be cautious and report any suspicious activity or requests for money to local law enforcement. Educating friends and family about common scams, such as the grandparent scam, can help prevent others from falling victim to fraudulent schemes. The rise in instances of this scam in Manitoba underscores the need for increased awareness and vigilance when dealing with unexpected requests for financial assistance. By remaining informed and alert, individuals can protect themselves and their loved ones from falling prey to these deceptive tactics.

Overall, the grandparent scam continues to be a prevalent threat, with scammers preying on the kindness and concern of individuals to exploit them for financial gain. It is crucial for the public to remain skeptical of unsolicited requests for money, especially when they involve urgent or distressing scenarios. By staying informed, raising awareness, and promptly reporting any suspicious activity to law enforcement, individuals can help combat these scams and protect themselves and their communities from falling victim to financial exploitation.