Another city resident has fallen victim to a grandparent scam.
On Monday, the victim contacted St. Thomas Police to advise they had received a call from a man impersonating their grandson who allegedly was in custody following a collision in London.
A second man, posing as a lawyer requested a $6,000 e-transfer to facilitate their grandson’s release.
An initial $2,500 was forwarded, after which the victim contacted their bank and then their grandson.
City police are investigating.
How to Protect Yourself
Grandparent scams exploit emotions to pressure victims into acting quickly. To safeguard against such scams, remember these tips:
Pause and Verify: If you receive a distress call from a relative, confirm their story by contacting them directly or speaking with another family member.
Beware of Urgency: Scammers often create a sense of urgency. Take time to think and verify details.
Never Share Financial Information: Avoid providing bank details or sending money without thorough verification.
Report Suspicious Calls: Contact the St. Thomas Police Service immediately if you suspect a scam.
If you have information about this incident or have been targeted by similar scams, contact the St. Thomas Police Service at 519-631-1224 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
