Emergency scams, sometimes referred to as 'Grandparent scams', are tricking hundreds of people into forking over large sums of money, according to the Alberta RCMP. (Photo: Alberta RCMP)

By Sarah Jones

'Grandparent scam'

Albertans have collectively lost over $3.5 million in phone scams in 2022: RCMP

Dec 8, 2022 | 8:07 AM

EDMONTON, AB – Police in the province are warning the public of a reoccurring phone scam that has cost Albertans millions of dollars.

Emergency scams sometimes referred to as ‘Grandparent scams’ are tricking hundreds of people into forking over large sums of money.

Police say the scams start as a random phone call to the potential victim, claiming a loved one is in trouble with the courts or law enforcement, and a cash payment is required to help them.

Suspects will often imitate police officers, judges, or even family members in order to convince their potential victim to transfer funds via mail. Police say a scammer may act as a courier to pick up the money in-person.

The sense of urgency behind the scam, asking the victim to pay immediately or be faced with consequences has forced many people to pay without first looking into the matter.

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On the other hand, police say many of the fraudsters are compelling enough to ensure secrecy by telling the victim that no one can know because it is embarrassing or because the judge has placed a publication ban, or “gag order”, on the case.

In 2022, Alberta RCMP has received over 150 reports of this type of fraud, and Albertans in these RCMP jurisdictions have lost an estimated $750,000, with the average loss of a successful scam being $11,000.

The single largest known scam reported cost one individual $87,000.

A poster advising residents of the scam shared by the RCMP. (Photo: Alberta RCMP)

Cpl. Sean Milne, Alberta RCMP Serious and Organized Crime Unit said in a news conference, “We encourage you to talk to family, friends, or loved ones who may be vulnerable to these types of crimes, making sure they know what to watch for.”

“If they are contacted by a scammer, they shouldn’t feel embarrassed, they shouldn’t keep it secret, and they should reach out for help.”

While police have made progress in their investigations, arresting several suspects across the province; once money is in the hands of a scammer it’s exceptionally rare that it will be returned to the victim.

The Alberta RCMP wants to remind citizens that bail is always paid in-person at a courthouse or correctional center, and law enforcement would never call on behalf of a suspect to acquire bail.

If a person claims to be a police officer or judge, victims can call that police service or courthouse directly to confirm the situation, as police and courts will never demand cash be picked up in-person or mailed.

People who may have fallen victim to this scam or any scam are encouraged to call their local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre to report it.

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