DUNNVILLE—Haldimand OPP is reminding the public to be vigilant and always verify information after a Dunnville resident fell victim to a popular scam.
On Wednesday, July 6, 2022 at 10:45 a.m., the victim was contacted by an unknown person claiming to be their grandson. The “grandson” told the victim that he had been involved in an incident with a friend that involved the police. He said he had strep throat, but he was too dizzy to drive to the drugstore, so a friend was driving him there. He said that on the way, they were pulled over by police and drugs and guns were located in the trunk of the car. Now he needed money for bail. Another person then took over the phone call and identified himself as the “grandson’s” lawyer. He advised the victim that they had to send $5,000 to a designated bank account so that the victim’s “grandson” could be released. The lawyer warned the victim that there was a “gag” order in effect, therefore no one was to know about the incident, especially not the police or it would jeopardize the case.
Feeling their grandson was in serious trouble and needing help, the victim sent a total of $5,000 to a bank account provided by the scammer by way of overnight delivery. The fraudulent lawyer had given specific instructions to the victim about how to send the money.
Fortunately, the victim contacted police the next day early enough so that all their funds were returned. The police had intervened while the money was still in transit.
When scammers use an “emergency” tactic, they play on the victim’s emotions by generating a sense of fear. It is imperative to verify any unsolicited contact before you respond and provide any information. Keep your guard up when you receive a surprise call from anyone soliciting funds and indicating that a loved one is in jail or have been involved in a serious accident. Contact your immediate family and inquire if anyone is in need of assistance. Do not forward any funds without speaking to family members first.
The OPP encourages anyone with elderly family members to have discussions with them about the different types of frauds and tactics and the preventative practices they can use every day. OPP encourages the public to stay educated and informed to reduce the risk of being a victim of fraud.
