Over the past two days, the Greater Sudbury Police Service has received three calls regarding the “Grandparent scam”.
Communication director Kaitlyn Dunn says In all three instances, community members were contacted by fraudsters claiming to be the lawyer of a family member who was involved in a collision.
She says the fraudster claimed to need the money for lawyer fees to represent the family member in court and showed up at the individual’s residence to collect the money.
She says the individual is described as a man, in his 40’s, around 5’5” tall, wearing a black surgical mask and a black suit.
Dunn adds the community members who have fallen victim to this scam have paid between $5,000- $15,000 to the fraudster.
Police can be reached at 705-675-9171 or Crime Stoppers at 705-222-8477.
If you have parents or grandparents who do not have regular access to the internet or social media, take the time to have a conversation with them about scams.
To protect yourself and your loved ones always take time to verify the story.
Always call your child or grandchild to confirm their whereabouts and never send or give money to anyone you do not know or trust.
Also, never give out personal information including your address to unknown individuals calling your home or cellphone.
