NEWS RELEASE
BARRIE POLICE SERVICE
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Barrie Police are investigating a grandparent fraud that played on the emotions of an elderly Barrie resident, leaving her feeling vulnerable, embarrassed and out over $2,500.
On Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2018, the victim, a 96-year-old resident of Barrie, received a phone call from an unknown individual, relaying some bad news. The caller advised the victim's grandson was involved in a vehicle collision out of province and he required money immediately. At one point during the conversation, a second male came on the line claiming to be her grandson and begging for help, pleading with her not to tell any other family members about his dire situation. The victim agreed to send $2,500 and she was advised the caller had arranged for a delivery service to attend later that afternoon to collect the funds.
Shortly after 1 p.m., a delivery driver attended the victim's apartment complex on Collier Street in the City of Barrie to collect the package. The money was exchanged and the victim was led to believe the money was on its way to her grandson in need.
Often times these scams happen and are not reported to police for various reasons, however investigators are encouraging anyone that falls victim, whether the loss is a small denomination or large, to file a report immediately.
Police are also urging anyone who receives a phone call from someone claiming to be their grandchild, a loved one, or someone representing a family member, to take a moment and follow these tips to ensure the call is legitimate:
1. Take time to verify the story. Scammers are counting on you wanting to quickly help your loved one in an emergency.
2. Call the child's parents or friends or other family members to find out about their whereabouts.
3. Ask questions to the person on the phone that only your loved one would be able to answer and verify their identity before taking steps to help.
4. Never send money to anyone you don't know and trust.
5. Never give out personal information to the caller and be cautious of them asking questions which may reveal information they can use to scam you further.
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