Edmonton police warn of grandparent scam surge targeting seniors with 31% increase

Edmonton police are warning the public about a significant increase in grandparent scams targeting seniors and their savings. In the past two months, police have received 21 reports of seniors being targeted by scammers.

The common tactic involves suspects posing as police officers claiming that a child or grandchild has been arrested and requires immediate bail money to be released from custody. Scammers create a sense of urgency, insisting payment be made immediately in the form of cash, credit cards, gift cards, cryptocurrency, gold, or jewellery. In some cases, a courier is sent directly to the victim's home to collect payment, or the "police officer" will meet the senior in person.

Once a victim provides payment, fraudsters often continue to contact them and demand additional funds for purported legal fees, court costs, and other charges. Some victims have been targeted repeatedly, resulting in substantial financial losses.

"These criminals are manipulative, convincing, and highly skilled at creating panic," said Staff Sgt. Mike Zaparyniuk of the EPS Financial Crimes Section. "They deliberately prey on seniors by exploiting the fear and concern they have for their loved ones."

Police emphasize that law enforcement will never call and demand money, gold, gift cards, cryptocurrency, credit cards, or any other form of payment. If you receive such a call, hang up immediately and contact EPS directly to verify. Family members are encouraged to have conversations with parents, grandparents, friends, and neighbours about these scams — a simple conversation can prevent someone from losing their life savings.