Grandparent and family emergency scams
A caller says your grandchild or relative is in trouble.
How it works
A scammer calls or texts pretending to be your grandchild, another relative, or a lawyer or police officer. They say your loved one was arrested, hurt, or stuck far from home and needs money right now. Some scammers use voice-copying tools to sound like your family member. They beg you not to tell anyone.
What it might look like
"Grandma, it's me. I'm in jail and I'm so scared. Please don't tell Mom. My lawyer will call you about bail. Can you get $3,000 in cash today?"
Red flags
- They need money right away.
- They ask you to keep it secret.
- They want cash, gift cards, a wire, crypto, or say a courier will pick up money.
- The voice sounds a bit off, or they won't answer personal questions.
What to do
- Hang up.
- Call your relative, or another family member, at a number you already know.
- Never hand cash to a courier or mail cash.
- Set up a family code word that only real family knows.