08/29/2025
The grandparent scam is making the rounds again. Here are some common red flags to watch for:
🚩Emotional hooks: A call from a supposed grandchild in an “accident” or needing “bail money.”
🚩Authority impersonation: Follow-up calls from fake lawyers, police or bail bondsmen demanding cash.
🚩Pressure tactics: Urgent instructions not to tell anyone and to act immediately.
🚩Unusual payment requests: Demands for cash, gift cards, wire transfers, or crypto.
🚩Third-party couriers: Strangers, like rideshare drivers or couriers, sent to pick up money.
Protection strategies: What seniors and families can do
📌Pause and verify. Hang up, then call a trusted family member before sending money. If you make the call yourself, you can be sure you’re really talking to your grandchild.
📌Verify with authorities. If someone claims to be a lawyer, police officer or bail bondsman, independently verify with the actual institution before sending money.
📌Recognize pressure tactics. Any call demanding immediate payment is a red flag.
📌Report suspicious activity. Contact police and file a report with the FBI at IC3.gov.
