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By rdnewsNOW staff

Be Aware

Red Deer RCMP warn the public about evolving grandparent scams

Jul 21, 2023 | 1:02 PM

Red Deer RCMP are warning citizens of evolving grandparents scams victimizing seniors in our community.

Mounties say these recent scams involve a story where a loved one has gotten themselves into a predicament; usually with the law.

Police say the motive of these fraudsters is to call seniors and impersonate police officers, lawyers, and grand children to get money quickly from victims by way of email money transfers, courier, gift cards, or someone coming to your home to pick up cash.

According to RCMP, fraudsters are able to find out personal details about the victim and their loved ones from social media and other platforms. The fraudsters then call and provide a story that a loved one needs bail money for some incident.

Mounties warn they can be very convincing and manipulating.

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Red Deer RCMP want citizens to be aware of existing scams in our area and to protect your family and your financial situation.

• Be mindful or careful of what you post online. Scammers can use details shared on social media platforms,
• Hang up and do not provide information to the caller,
• Do not send money to the caller,
• Call your loved one to confirm the information,
• Report this information to police.

Law Enforcement will never use high-pressure tactics for money exchange.

Report the scam to your local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) online https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca, or by phone 1-888-495-8501.

Contact the Red Deer RCMP at 403-406-2200. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or using the “P3 TIPS” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.