How to Spot the Grandparent Scam 👵
Learn how scammers pretend to be a grandchild or family member in trouble to trick you into sending money.
How to Spot the Grandparent Scam 👵
Scammers call pretending to be your grandchild or another family member. They say they are in trouble and need money right away. This scam works because it targets your love for your family.
How This Scam Works 🚨
You get a phone call and the person says something like:
- "Grandma, it is me! I got arrested and I need bail money"
- "I was in a car accident in another country and need money for the hospital"
- "My lawyer says I need to send money right now or I will go to jail"
- "Please do not tell Mom and Dad — I do not want them to worry"
Sometimes a second person gets on the phone pretending to be a lawyer, police officer, or doctor to make it seem more real.
Red Flags to Watch For 🚩
- ❌ They say "Grandma, it is me" and wait for you to guess a name
- ❌ They beg you not to tell other family members
- ❌ They need money immediately — by wire transfer, gift cards, or cash
- ❌ They say a lawyer or police officer will call you next
- ❌ The story keeps changing or getting bigger
- ❌ They cannot answer simple family questions correctly
What To Do If This Happens 🛡️
Step 1
Hang up the phone — even if it feels rude
Step 2
Call your grandchild or family member directly using a phone number you already have saved
Step 3
If you cannot reach them, call another family member to check
Step 4
Do not send money, gift cards, or anything until you verify the story
Step 5
Report the call to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
💡
Tip: Create a family code word that only your real family knows. If someone calls claiming to be a relative, ask for the code word.
Received a scary call from someone claiming to be family? Silver Support Hub can help you verify before you act! 💙