Rise in ‘Grandparent Scam’ Targeting the Thousand Islands Region

Gananoque – Police services in the area have seen a sharp increase in a common telephone scam known as the ‘grandparent scam’—a scheme designed to prey on seniors’ emotions.

Fraudsters pose as a close family member, claiming to have been involved in an accident or under arrest. Sometimes they involve a second person who pretends to be a police officer. They create a sense of urgency, requesting immediate financial help for bail or medical expenses. Payment may be demanded through wire transfers, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or even by sending a “courier” to collect cash from your home. None of these payment methods are legitimate for medical bills or bail.

Important Reminder: Police officers do not handle the court bail process.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Do not send money—take a moment to verify the situation.
• Call your grandchild or another trusted family member to confirm their safety.
• “Court-appointed couriers” do not exist—if someone offers to pick up payment, it’s a scam.
• Urgency and pressure are red flags—scammers want you to act fast without thinking.
• Do not call numbers the caller provides—instead, look up the official contact information yourself.
• Set up a family safe word—a phrase only you and your loved ones know, to verify their identity.

Most importantly: You’re in control.

Scammers rely on fear and urgency—don’t act immediately. Take your time, verify the details, and talk to someone you trust. Your best defence is awareness.

If you’ve been defrauded out of money, please contact your local police service to report the crime.

If you have experienced a scam but did not lose money, please report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.