MOOSE JAW — The Moose Jaw Police Service is advising the public to be vigilant following several reports of the “Grandparent/Parent Scam.”
Within the “Grandparent/Parent Scam,” the caller pretends to be a grandchild or family member who has been arrested or is in danger.
The caller immediately indicates they need money and states that a lawyer, police officer, or judge will contact them. Once information is obtained from the initial call, a second call is placed to the “victim” from someone impersonating a lawyer, police officer, or judge. The “victim” is instructed to withdraw a large amount of money and await further directions.
The MJPS, lawyers, judges, or jails do not call people personally to request money. Also, if the caller is requesting payment via gift cards or Bitcoin, it’s a scam.
Recently, the scammers have been directing victims to various Bitcoin ATMs within Moose Jaw. The scammer then will instruct the victim to deposit money into different “Bitcoin wallets.”
If you become suspicious of the call, reach out to your grandchild or family member to verify the claims or requests.
The Moose Jaw Police Service would like to remind the public not to provide personal information over the phone.
If you or someone you know has fallen victim to a scam, please get in touch with the Moose Jaw Police Service at 306-694-7600. If you prefer to remain anonymous, call the Moose Jaw Crime Stoppers with your information at 1-800-222-8477, go online at p3tips.com, or download the mobile app.
