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Grandparent Scams
Someone pretends to be your grandchild in trouble
🔍 How It Works
A caller pretends to be your grandchild (or their lawyer) saying they're in jail, in an accident, or in trouble. They beg you to send bail money immediately and tell you not to tell their parents. They may use AI to clone your grandchild's voice.
📝 Real Examples
- •'Grandma, it's me! I got in a car accident and I'm in jail. I need $3,000 for bail. Please don't tell Mom and Dad.'
- •A 'lawyer' calls saying your grandson was arrested and needs bail money wired immediately.
- •Your 'granddaughter' calls crying, saying she needs money for a hospital bill overseas.
⚠️ Warning Signs
- •Caller says 'Don't tell anyone'
- •They need money RIGHT NOW
- •They ask for gift cards or wire transfers
- •The voice sounds slightly off
- •They can't answer personal questions
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself
- •Hang up and call your grandchild on their real number
- •Ask a question only the real person would know
- •Create a family code word for emergencies
- •Tell another family member about the call
📋 What To Do If It Happens
- •Hang up immediately
- •Call your grandchild's real phone number
- •Tell a family member
- •Report to local police
📞 Where to Report
- •FTC: reportfraud.ftc.gov
- •Local police department
- •AARP Fraud Helpline: 1-877-908-3360