Impersonation
Grandparent or Family Emergency Scam
A caller sounds like your grandchild in trouble and begs you to send money right away.
How it works
You get a call from someone who says they are your grandchild, or a lawyer or officer helping them. They say there was an accident, an arrest, or a hospital emergency and they need money now, and they beg you not to tell the rest of the family. The rush and secrecy are meant to stop you from checking. The voice may sound convincing but it is a stranger.
Warning signs
- Caller says "Grandma, it's me" and waits for you to say a name
- Begs you to keep it a secret from the family
- Claims an accident, arrest, or hospital bill
- Wants cash, gift cards, wire, or a courier pickup
- Extreme urgency and emotional pressure
- Refuses to let you call the person back directly
The newer AI trick
Scammers can now clone a grandchild's voice from a few seconds of social media video, so the caller may truly sound like your loved one. Always hang up and call the family member back on their real number.
What to do
- Hang up and call your grandchild or their parents on a known number.
- Ask a question only the real person could answer.
- Do not send cash, gift cards, or wire money.
- Talk to another family member before acting.
If they are still on the line: Do not confirm any names or send money. Hang up and verify by calling your family directly. A real emergency will survive a five-minute check.
How to report it
Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or 1-877-382-4357, and to the FBI at ic3.gov. For elder-specific help, call the DOJ Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311.