Date: January 14, 2025Share

RCMP warn public of fraud scam

St. Albert RCMP are warning the public about a fraud scam that saw a local senior almost loose $7,500 when they received a call, from an unknown number, with the individual claiming to be their grandson who required bail money. St. Albert RCMP were able to intervene and stop the senior before they paid the alleged bail.

This “Grandparent Scam” is not new but appears to be resurfacing again in 2025. These scams usually involve a phone call, email or contact via social media (i.e. Facebook, Instagram, etc.) from someone pretending to be your grandchild or a loved one in trouble, needing immediate money for bail or hospital expenses. The scammer may try to convince you that they have been in a car accident, in the hospital or have been arrested. The fraudster will ask for payment right away in order to get your grandchild out of trouble. Payment may be requested through wire transfer, crypto currency, gift cards or by sending a courier to your home or a set location to pick up the cash.

St. Albert RCMP want to remind the public that fraud can happen to anyone. These fraudulent individuals are professional criminals, their scams are elaborate and they are very convincing on the phone.

If you have been a victim of fraud or would like more information on all the different fraudulent scams in Canada, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre @ www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca

St. Albert RCMP encourage the public to report any criminal or suspicious activity. Reports tell us where to look, who to look for, and where to patrol in the future. If you see a crime in progress, dial 911. If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

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