What would you do if a grandchild called out of the blue, asking for bail money and begging for this to stay a secret from mom and dad?
While this scenario might pull at the heartstrings, it is also one Ottawa police say can put a big strain on seniors’ bank accounts. The Ottawa Police Service has received at least 15 complaints from seniors who have been fooled in the latest surge of the “Granny” scam, says Sgt. Richard Dugal of the organized fraud section.
An elderly person gets a call from someone claiming to be a grandson, who then says he is in trouble and needs immediate financial assistance, usually between $3,000 and $6,000 for bail, car repairs or fines at the border.
The fraudster typically asks that the funds be sent through a financial wire service such as Western Union or other money-transfer companies.
“They’re always asking for you not to tell anyone else in the family,” says Dugal.
The plea for secrecy can get many seniors in over their heads.
“I think it goes back to the nurturing vibe and not wanting to see a loved one in any distress,” says Russ Gallant, director of administration at the Good Companions seniors' centre.
“They maybe haven’t talked to their grandkids in five years and then all of a sudden, it’s little Johnny calling,” he says.
Last year, there were 51 reported cases of similar scams in Ottawa, and Sgt. Dugal says that doesn’t count the many who may be too embarrassed to come forward.
Dugal says many victims feel guilty or shameful for being so easily scammed, but solving the crimes can be complicated.
“The callers don’t necessarily originate in the Ottawa area,” he says. “It’s just the victims.”
Ottawa police say they have been able to charge two people involved in the scams, but the complexity of the criminal groups makes them hard to catch. There are many different groups involved in the scams, often using cell phones attached to fake names, or voice-over IP (VOIP) calling to hide their identity.
For now, the best thing to do is spread the word, says Gallant.
“All we can do is inform our members and our volunteers that the scam is going on,” he says.
Gallant says seniors need to make sure they verify the identity of anyone they give money to.
“They have to be aware that before you start sending cheques or giving your credit card to people, you should check on making sure that who you’re giving to is correct.”