Police warn of rising grandchild telephone scams

Police are warning of a resurgence in 'grandchild scams' targeting elderly individuals. Perpetrators use sophisticated tactics to manipulate victims by impersonating family members, police officers, or lawyers.

In one common scenario, scammers claim a relative has been involved in an accident, hospitalized, or detained by authorities and requires immediate funds for bail or medical expenses. To increase credibility, callers often use distressed or crying voices. Another method involves claiming a relative received a package containing illegal items, such as weapons or drugs, necessitating immediate payment to resolve the legal issue.

Scammers may instruct victims to place cash or jewelry in a bag and leave it outside—such as by a window, fence, or door handle—for a courier to collect while the scammer remains on the phone. Authorities advise citizens to remain vigilant, hang up immediately if pressured, and call the relative back on a known, trusted number to verify the situation.