Seniors Warned Of Grandson Scam

ARKANSAS — Scam artists will do just about anything to steal from seniors, including posing as a favorite grandson or granddaughter. The “favorite grandson” scam is not new but resurfaces frequently among Arkansas’ elderly population. Attorney General Dustin McDaniel issued this consumer alert to warn the public about this scheme and provide tips to avoid falling victim.

In the “favorite grandson” scam, the con artist calls an elderly person, whom he either knows or found through other means like scanning the phonebook for “traditional-sounding” names. Once contact is made, the con artist identifies himself as the individual’s “favorite grandson”, engages in conversation and tries to entice the person into giving his or her actual grandchild’s name.

After talking for a bit, the con artist tells the grandparent that he is in serious trouble or has been in an accident and needs money wired to him as soon as possible. Once the victim wires the money, there is usually no way to get it back.

“I know my grandmother would go to great lengths to help me or any of her grandchildren and, unfortunately, con artists know this too,” said McDaniel. “Even in times of emergencies, it’s important to stay focused and listen to your instincts.”

Here are some tips to remember to avoid falling for the “favorite grandson” scam:

◊ Never give or wire money based on an unsolicited phone call;

◊ Verify your family members’ whereabouts by directly calling another family member or the grandchild herself;

◊ Never send money to an unknown account or entity;

◊ Ask the caller for his or her name point blank and if they cannot provide it hang up immediately; and

◊ Contact the Attorney General’s Office, 1-800-482-8982, if you believe you have been a victim of this scam.