How-to guide
The grandparent scam
The grandparent scam targets older adults with a terrifying call: a grandchild is in jail, in hospital, or in trouble abroad, and needs money now — and please don't tell mom and dad.
How it works
- A caller claims to be a grandchild (or their lawyer) in an emergency.
- They beg for fast, secret payment — bail, hospital, a fine.
- They ask for gift cards, wire transfer, cash by courier, or crypto.
- AI voice cloning can make the voice sound real.
How to verify
Hang up and call the grandchild and their parents directly. Ask a question only the real person could answer, or use a family safe word. No real emergency requires gift cards or cash sent by courier.
Frequently asked questions
The voice sounded just like my grandchild — could it be fake?
Yes. Scammers use AI voice cloning and personal details from social media. Always verify by calling the person back directly before sending money.
Why do they ask me to keep it secret?
Secrecy stops you from calling a relative who would spot the scam. That request is itself a red flag.