Elderly Sarnia residents are being told to be on alert as the Grandparent Scam has resurfaced in the community.
Sarnia police said the scammer pretends to be a grandchild, niece, nephew or close family member that's in trouble.
Common made up scenarios include they have been arrested, they were in a car crash, they are stranded in a foreign country, or they need money for medical treatment or bail.
Police said the scammers use urgency and secrecy and emotional manipulation to try and get money.
They may ask for a money transfer or prepaid gift cards.
Residents can protect themselves by never offering information to the caller, pressing them for details, asking personal questions, never providing personal or credit card information, don't meet with anyone in person and be careful what you post online.
Those who have been caught in a Grandparent Scam are told to contact police.
Police said bank staff are aware of these kinds of scams and are trained to pay attention if a customer makes an unusual transaction.
As the owner of the account, police said you are ultimately responsible for any funds that you withdraw from your own bank account.
