Grandparent Scam' Warning: Holiday Emergency Calls That Aren't Real

And what to do if you get that call

The phone rings. You answer, and a frantic voice says, “Grandma, it’s me. I’ve been in a terrible accident. I’m in jail and I need help. Please don’t tell Mom and Dad, they’ll be so upset. Can you send money for bail right now?”

Your heart races. Your grandchild sounds terrified. Every instinct tells you to help immediately. But here’s the truth: that desperate voice might not be your grandchild at all.

This is the grandparent scam, and it’s devastatingly effective worldwide. In 2024, Americans over 60 alone lost nearly $4.9 billion to scammers, with losses averaging $83,000 per victim. Similar patterns are reported globally, from Canada to the UK, Australia to Europe. During the holiday season, when emotions run high and families are scattered across countries, these scams spike dramatically. AARP

Law enforcement agencies worldwide warn that scammers specifically target the holidays because grandparents are more likely to be home, more emotional about family connections, and more willin…