A grandparent scam is a type of fraud where criminals pretend to be a grandchild to trick older adults into urgently sending money.

How it works:

• The scammer contacts a grandparent by phone, text, or email. 
• They pretend to be the grandchild (often saying something like “Hi Grandma, do you know who this is?” to get the victim to guess a name). 
• They claim there’s an emergency — for example: 
  
  • They’ve been arrested 
  • They were in a car accident 
  • They’re stranded in another country 
• They beg the grandparent not to tell anyone and ask for money immediately (via wire transfer, gift cards, or payment apps). 

• Sometimes, a scammer may pretend to be a lawyer, police officer, or hospital staff calling with the same urgent message about the grandchild.

Why it’s effective

• It plays on emotion and urgency, especially fear and love for family. 
• Scammers may use information from social media to sound convincing. 
• Scammers may use AI or voice modulators to mimic a loved one’s voice. They may also use AI to mimic photos or videos.
• Older adults may feel pressured to act quickly without verifying. 

Warning signs 

• Urgent request for money with a “don’t tell anyone” instruction 
• Requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency 
• Caller refuses to let you speak directly to the grandchild 
• Story has inconsistencies or vague details 

How to protect yourself

• Pause and verify: Call your grandchild (or their parents) directly using a known number. 
• Ask a question only your real grandchild would know. 
• Never send money under pressure. 
• Talk to someone you trust before acting. 

If someone is targeted: Report it to the Federal Trade Commission or your local police department.