The McHenry County Sheriff’s Office has received more than 6 notifications recently from residents informing us that unknown persons were calling and attempting to have them fall for the “Grandparent scam”.
During the call, the person impersonates the grandchild and states that they have been in an accident or arrested. The caller then asks their “Grandparents” to forward money to their account to help pay for medical bills or for bond money. We encourage residents to check with their immediate family and their police department before they send any money.
Scam artists receive information about family members through the internet and social media. We remind residents to be mindful of what they post on social media as personal information can assist scam artists in their research and targeting of your loved ones.
The Grandparents scam may have different stories or twists, some common parts to the scam:
• Grandparents are called by those acting like their grandchild
• Requested to send money
• In some way they try to confuse the victim, sometimes personal information is known about the grandchild or grandparent
• The caller expresses that there is urgency in the matter.
The FBI provides more information on the “Grandparents” scam through their website: https://www.fbi.gov/sandiego/press-releases/2012/beware-of-the-grandparent-scam - If you are a victim to any scam, we urge you to notify your police department to make a report.
