By KENNEDY GRIFFIN
(Boston, MA) The Massachusetts State Police have issued a warning to residents about the “Grandparent Scam.” Scammers pose as a grandchild or relative to an older person, saying they have been in a crash, accident, arrest or other situation that requires financial assistance. The scammer may plead with the older person asking to send or wire a large amount of money or even pose as a law enforcement official, attorney, or other such figure to bolster the story.
36 residents in Massachusetts have fallen victim to the scam, losing more than $230,000 combined, although the number may be much higher as some victims may not be aware they have been scammed or may not have come forward. The State Police urge residents to not engage with the caller, instead hang up and report to an actual family member and local police department.