State Police Warning About So-Called ‘Grandparent Scams’

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — State police are warning the general public about scams targeting older people.

So-called "grandparent scams" involve unknown individuals calling older or elderly people and pretending to be a relative, usually a grandchild who needs money for some pressing matter.

Victims sometimes are asked to wire money to the scammer, or send gift cards. The scammers also ask the victims not to contact his or her parents about the money because it would be embarrassing.

Successful scams usually result in the loss of thousands of dollars. A recent case in Saratoga County cost the victims $11,000.

Troopers encourage anybody who receives such a call to ask questions that an impostor would not be able to answer correctly. Any such calls also should be reported to officials right away.