Protect Seniors From "The Grandparents Scam"

February 01, 2012

"Grandma? This is your granson. I've just been arrested - can you bail me out?"

No grandparent wants to receive a phone call like this! But be aware: That caller may not be a grandchild at all. Families should be aware of a scam that often targets seniors.

In a May 2011 poll, 58 percent of Caring Right at Home online newsletter readers reported that they know a senior who has been victimized by fraud. The Federal Trade Commission is alerting seniors to an old scam that is now easier for crooks, who exploit the easy availability of personal information on Facebook, blogs and other sites.

Here's how it goes: The con artist calls or emails an older adult claiming to be in some kind of trouble, often out of the country. The "grandchild" asks the senior to wire money right away, and often cautions, "Don't tell Mom and Dad, I don't want to worry them." Once the money is sent, the impostor is never heard from again and the grandparent quickly discovers that their real grandchild is just fine.

The FBI urges us to warn older friends and loved ones about this scam. If called, seniors can avoid being fleeced by asking personal questions that only their real grandchild could answer, such as "What did I give you for your birthday last month?" "Where is our summer cabin?" Some families even establish a family code word. Anyone who receives a "Grandparents Scam" phone call should hang up, and notify the local police department and the Federal Trade Commission (www.ftc.gov).