Scam Alert: Burlington Police Warn Of 'Grandparent' Scams

BURLINGTON, MA — Burlington Police are warning about a common type of scam, after an "alert neighbor" thwarted an attempt this week. The department recommended that residents bring up "grandparent scams" with the seniors in their lives. In a grandparent scam, the scammer poses as a grandchild in desperate need of trouble.

"Typically they will say they had a car crash or arrest and claim to need money for a lawyer or bail," the department wrote. "Some variations are for medical bills or even a demand for kidnapping ransom."

Similar versions of the scam involve posing as law enforcement, lawyers, and the IRS, often using real people's names. The tell tends to be the way the scammer asks for money, the department explained.

"They are often far away so normal payment methods won't work for them. They also don't like checks or regular credit cards because those payments can be stopped. They will most often ask for gift cards or money transfer cards," they wrote. "No legitimate government agency or business will insist on an unconventional payment method."

The department noted that seniors are not the only targets of scams, but are a favorite of scammers. They also warned against workplace versions of the scam, where scammers pose as bosses or finance departments.

"If you handle money, payments or payroll at any sized business or nonprofit you will eventually be targeted by one of these scam attempts via phone, email, app or text," they concluded. "Any time your gut says something is wrong, listen to that feeling! Stop & verify who you're communicating with."

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.