The phones at Sarnia Police Headquarters are ringing off the hook with complaints about a popular scam.
Cst. John Sottosanti said the 'grandparent scam' seems to be picking up steam right across southwestern Ontario.
"Yesterday alone, our dispatch received over 30 complaints regarding the grandparent scam," said Sottosanti. "This continues to be a big problem in the area. The criminals insist that you tell no one, but instead head to the bank to withdraw money and may actually send someone to pick up the money from the victim. Also, it appears that they know the grandchild's name or use ploys to make one believe that they are the grandchild."
He said unfortunately, several of the complaints were from residents who sent money to the scammers ranging from $9,000 to $24,000.
Cst. Sottosanti encourages residents to speak with elderly family members and educate them about the scam.
"Please do not give out any information or money," he said. "Instead hang up and call a family member or a friend to help verify any story if you're truly concerned. About 99.9 per cent of the time these stories are false, with the intent to drain the victim of thousands of dollars by inciting fear."
If no money or information is given, you don't need to call police, however if you or someone you know has sent money to a scammer contact the Sarnia Police Service at 519-344-8861, or Lambton OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or *OPP (677) on a mobile phone.
