Strathcona County RCMP is warning of a scam circulating through the area.
This scheme involves a scammer calling older folks pretending to be their grandchild or a lawyer.
The scammer will try to convince the grandparent that their grandchild is in trouble and has been arrested. They will then ask the victim to send them cash for bail through a wire transfer, buying gift cards, having a courier sent to pick up the money, or even sending Bitcoin.
Tactics used by scammers in this type of scheme are particularly dangerous as they may already know your grandchild's name and any pet names used. They will also try to pull at the victim's heartstrings to manipulate them into sending money.
The RCMP have provided a few tips to keep in mind to make sure you don't become a victim which includes asking the caller a few personal questions that only a real grandchild would know and calling the parents or other relatives of the grandchild involved to verify the story after you hang up.
Police also want to remind people that they will never request money to be sent for anything and that bail money can only be paid at a police station or courthouse.
Couriers are never sent to collect this money.
If you believe you may have been a victim of this scam, contact your local RCMP detachment.