Officials warn of influx of ‘grandparent scam’ reports

This Oct. 24, 2016, photo shows dollar bills in New York. Fraudsters are increasingly picking up the phone and trying to steal your money by pretending to be a government worker or a family member in trouble. In 2016, impostor scams overtook identity theft to become the second-most reported fraud, according to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)

Credit: Mark Lennihan

Credit: Mark Lennihan

This Oct. 24, 2016, photo shows dollar bills in New York. Fraudsters are increasingly picking up the phone and trying to steal your money by pretending to be a government worker or a family member in trouble. In 2016, impostor scams overtook identity theft to become the second-most reported fraud, according to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
Local News
By Breaking News Staff
Oct 24, 2017
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An influx of reports of the ‘grandparent scam’ in Greene County has the prosecutor’s office warning people to be on alert to avoid becoming a victim.

The ‘grandparent scam’ is when a con artist calls and poses as your grandchild or a family member and tells you that person is in legal trouble and in need of money.

The con artists will request that people send money via a wire transfer or a prepaid card, according to the Greene County Prosecutor’s Office.

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Prosecutors warn the scammers may also tell you your phone is being monitored.

To avoid becoming a victim prosecutors advise the following:

  • Always call your local law enforcement and check with them.
  • If you're suspicious, ask a question only a family member would know.
  • Be skeptical when someone asks for immediate payment via wire transfer, prepaid money card or gift card.
  • Call the person the scammer claims to be and confirm the claim.
  • Document the call, what was said, the phone number, etc.
  • Never giver personal information to someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
  • Police agencies will never call you for bond money.
  • Go to the Ohio Attorney Generals website or call 1-800-282-0515 for assistance.

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