Grandparent / Bail Scam
A caller claims a loved one is in trouble and needs money immediately
Immediate Answer
This is a scam if: someone claims a grandchild (or other loved one) is arrested or in danger and insists you act fast and keep it secret.
How This Scam Works
Scammers call pretending to be a grandchild, a police officer, or an attorney. They create urgency and fear, then demand immediate payment (often by wire, gift cards, or courier pickup).
They may use social media details to sound convincing, and they may discourage you from calling family directly.
Signs This Is a Scam
- Pressure to act immediately (“don’t tell anyone”).
- Requests for wire transfers, gift cards, cash, or a “courier.”
- Vague details, changing stories, or refusal to let you verify.
- Caller asks you to “guess who it is” or prompts for names.
What To Do Right Now
- Stop. Do not send money or share personal information.
- Verify independently. Hang up and call your loved one or another family member using a number you already have.
- If they claim police involvement, call the local department using the official number (not what the caller gives you).
- Tell someone you trust what happened. Scammers rely on isolation.
If You Already Sent Money or Information
If you paid by wire, card, or app, contact the institution immediately and ask about reversing or disputing the transaction. Save receipts, call logs, and any messages.
If you shared personal info, change any related passwords and consider credit monitoring or a credit freeze.
How To Protect Yourself Going Forward
- Set a family verification rule (a code word or callback procedure).
- Limit personal details on social media that scammers can use.
- Practice “pause and verify” before sending money to anyone.
You Are Not Alone
This scam is engineered to trigger panic and protect the scammer with secrecy. You did the right thing by slowing down and verifying.