The Chatham-Kent Police Service is advising residents of a recent increase in grandparent and emergency-style scams targeting community members, particularly older adults.
In these incidents, scammers contact victims by phone and falsely claim that a loved one is in trouble and urgently needs money. The calls are designed to create fear, pressure and confusion and they often demand secrecy and immediate payment.
In some cases, victims have lost significant amounts of money. In others, quick verification with family members has prevented financial loss. Please be aware that police will never request money, bail payments, gift cards, cryptocurrency or wire transfers over the phone.
The Chatham-Kent Police Service will be releasing a series of informative social media posts highlighting common scam tactics, warnings and prevention tips to help residents protect themselves and their loved ones.
For more information or to report a suspected scam, contact the Chatham-Kent Police Service by calling 519-352-1234 (non-emergency) or 911 in an emergency, even if no money was lost.