SCAM Spotlight
Grandparent "Help!" Scam
Don’t Be Fooled by the Panic Call!​
What’s happening?
Fraudsters are pretending to be your grandchild or another loved one in distress. Claims might include being arrested, injured, or in urgent need of bail or legal fees. These scammers often use real personal details like names or travel plans to make the story feel authentic.
What to look for & Red Flags
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“Don’t tell Mom or Dad.” Scammers often pressure you to keep the call secret, saying things like, “Please don’t tell my parents.” This isolation tactic is meant to stop you from verifying the story or asking someone else for advice.
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They ask for fast money through gift cards, wire transfers, or crypto. If someone asks you to send money urgently—and especially if they request untraceable methods like gift cards, Zelle, Venmo, or cryptocurrency—it’s almost always a scam. No legitimate emergency requires payment this way.
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The caller ID looks familiar, but the story feels off. Scammers can “spoof” phone numbers to make it look like the call is coming from your grandchild’s number. Combine that with emotional urgency, and it’s easy to get caught off guard.
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The voice sounds strange, or too accurate. New technology allows scammers to clone your loved one’s voice using audio from social media or past conversations. It may sound eerily real. If anything feels “off,” trust your instincts and verify.
What to Do
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Hang up immediately.
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Call your grandchild or your child using a phone number you already have.
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Always consult someone you trust before sending money.
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Report the call. File a complaint with the FCC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and, if you’ve lost money, contact your bank, local law enforcement, and the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 833‑FRAUD‑11.​
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This isn’t just an impersonation; it’s a modern, dangerous scam using real details and fake voices.
Stay calm, verify the story, and never send money without triple-checking. Your caution is your best defense.
