RCMP warns of “Grandparent Scheme”

Southern Alberta District Crime Reduction Unit has been investigating numerous recent complaints involving the grandparent scheme. They are issuing a warning to people in Southern Alberta, specifically Cardston, Vulcan, Fort MacLeod and Claresholm. For these particular cases, the suspects are asking the victims to meet them at a bank in Lethbridge.

At this time, RCMP have arrested one person for this scheme, however, they believe there are more involved and are continuing to investigate. A detailed update will be sent next week.

As a reminder:

These scams often involve a phone call being placed to the victim claiming a loved one is in trouble with the courts or law enforcement and a payment is needed to help them. The suspects will often pretend to be a police officer, judge, or family member. Suspects will usually ask for cash; however, they may also ask for payment in gift cards, bitcoin, or e-transfers.

RCMP want to remind citizens of the following:

• Bail is always paid in person at a courthouse or correctional center;

• Never send money to anyone you don’t know;

• If a person claims to be a police officer or judge, call that police service or court house directly to confirm the situation – police and courts will never demand cash be picked up in person or mailed; and

• Never give out personal information over the phone or online to someone you don’t know—the police or courts will not ask for personal information over the phone.

Should you have fallen victim to this or any other scam, please call your local RCMP, as well as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca or 1-888-495-8501). To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.