Cops See Surge In 'Grandchild In Distress' Scams In Wheaton

WHEATON, IL — Wheaton police are urging residents to stay vigilant after they have gotten several reports of residents being targeted in a "grandchild in distress" scam.

In this scam, the caller pretends to be the victim's grandchild and says they are in urgent need of money. These scammers often claim they need funds sent via Western Union, mail, wire transfer or in the form of gift cards due to a car crash, an arrest or some other crisis situation.

The scammer may call and request thousands of dollars, and then call back and request more money. On occasion, the scammer will come to a home or senior center posing as a bail bondsman in need of the funds to help the victim's grandchild.

Another version of the "grandchild in distress" scam involves two scammers working together. The first caller may pose as the grandchild and say they are under arrest, often using personal information to attempt to fool the victim. The second caller may pose as a police officer, neighbor or friend of the family who explains how much money to send and where to send it.

Wheaton police recommend asking personal questions only your relative would know to avoid falling victim to a "grandchild in distress" scam.

If you believe you have been targeted in such a scam, police say to avoid sending funds and to contact the Wheaton Police Department immediately at 630-260-2161.