👴
Grandparent Scams
Callers pretend to be a grandchild in trouble (arrested, injured) and beg for bail money before parents find out.
$74M
Annual losses (US)
11,000+ annually (US)
Reported victims/year
Report Now
FTC: ReportFraud.ftc.gov
🎭 How Scammers Do It: Tactics
- ▸ Call elderly victim claiming to be a grandchild in trouble
- ▸ Use emotional distress to make voice sound different ("I have a cold")
- ▸ Have "police officer" or "lawyer" get on the line to add legitimacy
- ▸ Instruct victim not to tell the grandchild's parents
- ▸ Send a courier to collect cash directly from the victim's home
- ▸ Use social media to gather information about grandchildren
🚩 Red Flags: Stop If You See These
⚠ Grandchild calls in distress from an unknown number
⚠ Story involves arrest, accident, or emergency abroad
⚠ Asks you to keep it secret from their parents
⚠ Requests cash, wire transfer, or gift cards for bail or hospital
⚠ A "lawyer" or "police officer" calls to verify the story
⚠ Courier arrives at your door to collect cash
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself
1. Establish a family code word for real emergencies
2. Always call your grandchild back on their known number to verify
3. Talk to the grandchild's parents before sending any money
4. Never send cash, gift cards, or wire transfers for bail or emergencies
5. Be skeptical of requests for secrecy from family members
6. Take your time — real emergencies allow time to verify
📋 How to Report This Scam
Report to FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and local police.