Don’t let ‘grandchild’ or other scam ruin the holidays

Talk about it

This holiday season, don’t give your grandchildren money.

Not unless it’s handed to them directly, that is.

Too many seniors have fallen victim to the grandparent scam where a “grandchild” phones his grandparents and asks them to wire cash. The “grandchild” claims he’s in a Canadian jail, hospital or other place and can’t get home without the money. But the “grandchild” is a fake. He’s a scammer. And if the money is wired, it’s gone, officials said. Law enforcement can’t track it.

The grandparent scam, like so many other scams, claims too many victims. And each of those victims loses hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars.

Too often, an individual receives a call, e-mail or letter with promises of fortune if only the recipient would wire the money for taxes, shipping fees or some other financial portion.

Don’t fall for it. Those promises are bogus. While wiring money serves a legitimate purpose, it also is difficult for law enforcement to track. Be suspicious of anyone asking for a wire transfer.

This season, give yourself the gifts of wisdom and security. If someone you don’t know is asking you to wire money, talk to the police first. If someone you do know is asking you to wire money, double check his or her identity.

In the grandparent scam, for example, tell the caller you’ll phone him back. Call his house phone or call his parents. Is Billy or Joey really in Canada?

Many individuals may be extra vulnerable this time of year, looking for deals, sales and ways to earn an extra buck. Don’t fall victim to a scam.

(Editorials are the opinion of Jamestown Sun management and the newspaper’s editorial board)

Tags: opinion, editorials, scams, holidays