Redcliff and Bow Island RCMP warn public of grandparent scam

Posted on August 22, 2024 by Ryan Dahlman

Redcliff and Bow Island RCMP

Redcliff and Bow Island RCMP have received several reports of attempted grandparent scams in the community.

The suspects are claiming to be a “lawyer” for their loved ones who have recently been incarcerated. This scam consists of the “lawyer” using the guise that the family’s loved one has been hurt, is currently incarcerated, and as a result requires money for bail. The “lawyer” will send someone to the residence to collect the money or have the victim forward the money to them via email. They appear to be targeting elderly people. This scam has occurred in several communities around the Province.

Typically suspects in grandparent scams will pretend to be a police officer, judge, or family member. Suspects will usually ask for cash, gift cards or Bitcoin.

 Redcliff RCMP wants to remind the public:

• Bail is always paid in person at a courthouse or correctional centre;

• Never send money to anyone you don’t know;

• If a person claims to be a police officer or judge, call that police service or court house directly to confirm the situation – police and courts will never ask for any form of payment;

• Never give out personal information over the phone or online to someone you don’t know—the police or courts will not ask for personal information over the phone.

Police are asking that anyone with information about this incident or those responsible to contact the Redcliff RCMP at 403-548-2288 or your local police service of jurisdiction. If you want to remain anonymous, you can contact crime stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), by internet at http://www.tipsubmit.com, or by SMS (www.crimestoppers.ab.ca for instructions). 

You do not have to reveal your identity to Crime Stoppers, and if you provide information to Crime Stoppers that leads to an arrest, the recovery of stolen property, and/or the seizure of illicit drugs, you may be eligible for a cash reward. Crime Stoppers does not subscribe to call display and the identity of the caller will remain anonymous.