Protected: Grandson in Jail Scam, with a Twist

Sadly here is an example of the relative in jail scam. Criminals are savvy. They have lists of telephone numbers of elder persons and the ability to pretend to be a grandchild or other relative. The caller begs for money and begs for secrecy. With internet genealogy and sites the ability to find and use a relative's name is easy. The scammers often begin with 'Grandpa I'm in trouble and in Jail'" Many times the victim says "Johnny is this you?" Then the con-artist begins the scam. The fraud asks the victim to wire or mail money. Often the caller pretends to be in a foreign country. Here is a story of one such victim. Things you should do if you receive a similar call: Provide no private information Call the family member in question at a number you know. Call people who should know about the whereabouts of the caller. Never wire money Block the caller