Phone scam targeting grandparents
Grandson in jail and needs bail money hoax
by Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office
June 13, 2011
ROCK SPRINGS - The Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office issued an advisory concerning an ongoing phone swindle circulating in the county that targets seniors, especially grandparents.
Sheriff Rich Haskell said the victim receives a telephone call from a man who identifies himself as the person’s grandson. The caller goes on to say that he is in jail, usually in Canada, after being involved in an accident, is facing DUI charges, and needs money for bail, damages, and attorney expenses.
The first call is usually followed up by a second, from a man who represents himself as the bogus grandson’s attorney, who "confirms" the story and presses the victim to wire the funds - as much as $30,000 - right away.
Haskell said several people in Green River were victimized two years ago for over $8,000 with this scam and many others were called.
"This particular scam is back, and obviously the swindlers are doing some research before they make their calls," Haskell said. "That’s a big part of making it all sound authentic." He encouraged Sweetwater County residents to be alert for similar calls, and to confirm independently any such information with other relatives before sending off any money.
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