"Grandparent" Scam Update: Public Advisory

Released: March 22, 2022 at 8 a.m.

Information contained in our media releases may relate to issues of violence or trauma, which could be distressing for some individuals. Be mindful of your well-being and consider whether or not engaging with this content is appropriate for you.

In October 2021, the Winnipeg Police Service issued an informative and cautionary media release in response to a dramatic increase in telephone scams targeting the elderly population (known as the "Grandparent Scam").

Update: couriers to homes

This scam has continued to flourish where fraudsters contact elderly victims by phone, pretending that the victim's grandchild or another family member has been arrested, and immediate bail money is required for their release. They arrange with the victim to have the funds collected in exchange for their loved ones' release. Recently, couriers or rideshare drivers have gone directly to the victim's residence to collect these requested funds.

The public needs to be aware of this scam and its variations. Police do not contact the public and demand funds be paid for the release of an arrested person. In some circumstances, an arrested person can be legitimately released to a person called a "surety." A surety payment is organized through Justice; they generally make a payment at the Law Courts. Any payment requests by phone or via courier should be considered suspicious.

Warning Signs – How to Protect Yourself:
https://www.winnipeg.ca/police/TakeAction/frauds_scams.stm#report
Knowledge is critical when it comes to preventing these frauds.

  • Be suspicious of telephone calls that immediately instruct you to pay bail money for a family member to be released. Contact the family member directly for confirmation. Confirm this person's actual whereabouts.
  • Law enforcement and other legal entities DO NOT request money.
  • Do not volunteer personal information over the phone. Some families use code words to confirm their identity.
  • Use caution when you post personal information online. Scammers can use personal information and photos shared on social media platforms and dating sites for targeting purposes.

If you have been a victim of fraud, document all the information you can recall about your fraudulent transaction, e.g. receipts, copies of emails, text messages and courier companies.
Depending on the nature of the fraud, refer to the following links for best reporting practices:
https://www.winnipeg.ca/police/TakeAction/frauds_scams.stm#reporting

Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre

Constable Jay Murray, Public Information Officer
Constable Dani McKinnon, Public Information Officer
Constable Claude Chancy, Public Information Officer
Kelly Dehn, Manager of Public Affairs

Office: 204-986-3061
E-mail: WPS-PIO@winnipeg.ca

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