Hamilton police warn of increase in 'grandparent' scams reported in recent months
The Hamilton Police Service is warning the public of an increase in “emergency” or “grandparent” scams reported in the last two months.
Police say that, under this scam, the victim will receive a call from a fraudster posing as a grandchild or other family member, claiming that they’ve been arrested and need financial help.
Often, the fraudster will ask the victim not to call other family members. Police say the fraudster will also often turn the phone over to another person, who poses as a lawyer or law enforcement.
The victim is directed to send money to a bank account or via courier to an address.
Hamilton police’s Major Fraud Unit is advising the public to be suspicious of calls that demand money and to never offer personal information or money over the phone.
“If the fraudster asks a question like ‘Do you know who this is?’, simply say no and have them tell you,” a release issued by police says.
Always contact a secondary family member to confirm the situation if you receive a call such as this, police say.
Hamilton police are asking anyone who believes they may have fallen victim to such a scam to contact them at 905-546-4925.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
BREAKING Israel attacks Iran, Reuters sources say; drones reported over Isfahan
Israel has attacked Iran, three people familiar with the matter told Reuters, as Iranian state media reported early on Friday that its forces had destroyed drones, days after Iran launched a retaliatory drone strike on Israel.
American millionaire Jonathan Lehrer denied bail after being charged with killing Canadian couple
American millionaire Jonathan Lehrer, one of two men charged in the killings of a Canadian couple in Dominica, has been denied bail.
Nearly half of China's major cities are sinking, researchers say
Nearly half of China's major cities are suffering 'moderate to severe' levels of subsidence, putting millions at risk of flooding especially as sea levels rise.
Prince Harry formally confirms he is now a U.S. resident
Prince Harry, the son of King Charles III and fifth in line to the British throne, has formally confirmed he is now a U.S. resident.
Judge says 'no evidence fully supports' murder case against Umar Zameer as jury starts deliberations
The judge presiding over the trial of a man accused of fatally running over a Toronto police officer is telling jurors the possible verdicts they may reach based on the evidence in the case.
Health Canada to change sperm donor screening rules for men who have sex with men
Health Canada will change its longstanding policy restricting gay and bisexual men from donating to sperm banks in Canada, CTV News has learned. The federal health agency has adopted a revised directive removing the ban on gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, effective May 8.
Colin Jost names one celebrity who is great at hosting 'Saturday Night Live'
Colin Jost, who co-anchors Saturday Night Live's 'Weekend Update,' revealed who he thinks is one of the best hosts on the show.
Sports columnist apologizes for 'oafish' comments directed at Caitlin Clark. The controversy isn't over
A male columnist has apologized for a cringeworthy moment during former University of Iowa superstar and college basketball's highest scorer Caitlin Clark's first news conference as an Indiana Fever player.
'Shopaholic' author Sophie Kinsella reveals brain cancer diagnosis
Sophie Kinsella, the best-selling author behind the 'Shopaholic' book series, has revealed that she is receiving treatment for brain cancer.