Imagine getting a call out of the blue:
“Grandma, it’s me! I’m in trouble. I’m overseas and lost my wallet—can you send me some gift cards to get home?”

It sounds just like your grandson… but what if it isn’t?

Welcome to one of the most heart-wrenching cons out there—the Grandparent Scam. Also known as the emergency scam, it preys on a grandparent’s love, urgency, and instinct to help a family member in distress.

What Is the Grandparent Scam?

This scam often starts with a sudden phone call, text, or email from someone pretending to be your grandchild, or even a lawyer or police officer claiming they’re calling on your grandchild’s behalf. They usually say there’s been an accident, arrest, or unexpected travel issue—and they need money fast.

To make things worse, they might plead with you not to tell anyone else. Scammers often gather details from social media to make their story sound convincing, and they may even fake a voice to sound just like your grandchild.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Be on high alert if someone:

• Demands money urgently – e.g., “I need cash NOW or I’ll go to jail!”
• Asks you to keep it a secret – e.g., “Don’t tell Mom—she’ll freak out!”
• Requests strange payment methods – Gift cards, Bitcoin, or wire transfers
• Sounds “off” – They might claim, “I have a broken nose,” to excuse a different-sounding voice

How to Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

• Take a deep breath. Don’t panic. Scammers want you to act fast. Slow down and think it through.
• Ask personal questions only your real grandchild would know the answer to.
• Verify the story. Hang up and call your grandchild or another trusted family member using a number you already have—not one provided by the caller.
• Create a family code word. This can help confirm identities in real emergencies.
• Limit what you share online. Scammers use social media to collect names, travel plans, and family details.
• Talk about it. Let others know how the scam works so they can stay alert too.

What to Do If You’re Targeted

• Do NOT send money or share any personal information.
• Hang up immediately.
• Contact your grandchild or another family member.
• Report the scam to your local police and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

You’re Not Alone

If you or someone you know has experienced a scam like this, don’t feel embarrassed. These criminals are professionals and very good at what they do. The best thing we can all do is stay informed, talk openly, and report suspicious activity.

Let’s protect each other. Let’s stay cybersafe.

Sources

• Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: Grandparent scams and how to avoid them
• FADOQ: The “grandparent” scam
• Grand Advisory Group: How to keep yourself safe
• TD Stories: Grandparent Scam Article