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THUNDER BAY — A scam designed to obtain money from seniors is once again targeting residents of Thunder Bay.
Police issued an alert Wednesday after receiving multiple reports from potential victims of "grandparent scam calls."
A caller using a private number claims to be a lawyer representing the resident's grandchild, and says the person has been arrested, involved in a traffic accident, or needs emergency assistance for some other reason.
The scammer also implies that a voice heard in the background is that of the grandchild.
He then asks the resident to either send money via e-transfer, or have cash available to be picked up by a bondsperson.
The TBPS Economic Crime Unit said it urges family members and friends to speak to individuals who may be vulnerable to being victimized by this kind of ruse.
It said the best way to deal with this sort of situation is to hang up the phone, then attempt to reach the family member who's alleged to be in trouble.
More information about various frauds and scams that may be circulating can be found on the website of the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
