Grandparent scam has accomplice pretending to be police officer in Hamilton

Hamilton | Crime | Latest News | Police |

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Published August 12, 2022 at 8:19 am

Police are advising the public to be vigilant as they investigate four recent incidents of seniors being defrauded in Hamilton.

This type of scam, called a “grandparent scam”, typically involves seniors being called by someone posing as their grandchild or other family member.

The scammer will claim they have been arrested and need bail money or emergency financial help.

“Fraudsters will ask the victim to keep the call private and not alert other family members about the fake situation. In some instances, the fraudster will even pass the phone to an accomplice pretending to be a lawyer or law enforcement official,” said police.

On August 5, 2022, police began investigations into four separate incidents of the defrauding of seniors in Hamilton.

Due to the similarity between the incidents, police believe that the same suspect(s) are involved.

No suspect descriptions are available at this time.

Residents should keep these tips in mind to avoid falling victim to a grandparent scam:

  • Be suspicious of calls that demand money or immediate action.
  • No law enforcement agency will demand immediate payment of currency.
  • Never offer information to the caller.
  • If the fraudster asks a question like “Do you know who this is?”, simply say no and have them tell you.
  • Contact another family member to confirm the story.
  • Remember to never send money to someone under uncertain conditions.
  • Don’t be afraid to say “No”.

Anyone who believes they may have fallen victim to such a scam is urged to contact the Hamilton Police non-emergency line at 905-546-4925.

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