The RCMP logo is seen on the shoulder of a superintendent during a news conference in St. John’s, Saturday, June 24, 2023. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld)
Manitoba RCMP are again warning the public to be vigilant surrounding the ongoing “grandparent scam.”
Portage la Prairie RCMP received reports on October 30 of two seniors in Portage la Prairie and MacGregor being defrauded by a scammer posing as a lawyer for their grandchild. The caller, claiming the grandchild was jailed and needed bail money, obtained funds from both victims, meeting one at their home and the other at a location on Hampton Street.
Earlier, on October 29, similar scams were reported in Minnedosa and Kleefeld, with seniors losing significant sums. An additional incident on October 24 involved a senior in East St. Paul who was picked up by the scammer, driven to a bank, and persuaded to withdraw cash.
RCMP urge vigilance, noting that these scammers use personal information, often from social media, to gain victims’ trust.
“The fact that they are showing up at homes and even driving with the victims speaks to their ever-increasing confidence in carrying-out these scams,” said Cst. Larry Neufeld of the Portage la Prairie detachment.
“These criminals play on the emotions of seniors and their willingness to help a family member in need.”
RCMP remind the public to verify any emergency claims by contacting family members directly. Suspicious calls should be reported to RCMP or anonymously to Manitoba Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Victims of cybercrime or fraud, can also contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501. The investigation remains ongoing.
