Police are warning residents in the Upper Ottawa Valley to be on alert as the emergency, or “grandparent,” scam has resurfaced in the region.
OPP say fraudsters are once again targeting vulnerable individuals by posing as relatives or loved ones in urgent need of money.
Victims typically receive a phone call or email from someone claiming to be a grandchild, child or friend in distress — often saying they’ve been in a car crash, arrested, or injured and need money immediately.
Police say scammers use emotional pressure and demand secrecy to manipulate victims, urging them to wire money or provide payment through bitcoin or a courier pickup. In some cases, fraudsters have asked for personal and banking information, which can be used to steal funds or commit identity theft.
The OPP are urging the public to verify any unexpected requests for money and to speak with trusted family members before acting.
Anyone targeted by the scam is asked to contact OPP or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or online at www.antifraudcentre.ca.
