Grandparent scam strikes again

Kingston Police urge caution

Kingston Police are warning residents about a rise in “grandparent” or “emergency” scams targeting senior citizens. On February 11, 2025, police received 15 reports of individuals being targeted by scammers using this method. This follows a similar warning issued one year ago after a surge in reports in February 2024.

The scam typically begins with a phone call from someone pretending to be the target’s grandchild, often using generic terms like “Papa” or “Grandma.” The caller claims to have been arrested following a car accident and may explain any changes in voice as a cold or illness. They then pass the call to a person claiming to be a lawyer, who demands large sums of money, sometimes as much as $8,000 to $9,000 for bail.

Recently, scammers have arranged for a courier to pick up the money, with victims instructed to place it in a shoebox. Police remind the public that cash is never requested for bail and urge residents not to send money via courier.

To protect themselves, Kingston Police advise verifying identities, not trusting caller ID, and refraining from sending money or sharing personal information with unknown individuals.