Crime & Safety

Hingham Police Warn Of 'Grandparents' Scam Attempts In Town

Hingham is the lastest police department in Eastern Mass. to warn residents of increased scam attempts amid the coronavirus health crisis.

HINGHAM, MA — While the "grandparent" or "arrested relative" scam has been around for decades, Hingham police are the latest department to report an increase of the attempted fraud in town.

The scam typically involves elderly residents being contacted by someone claiming to calling behalf of a younger relative who is sick or in trouble. The scammer will often use details that are culled from social media to convince the relative that the danger is legitimate.

The elderly parents are then asked to wire or transfer money through the internet or via gift card to secure a settlement or legal services for the younger relative, and scammers say that the relative has asked that parent not be notified.

Find out what's happening in Hinghamfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Many times, after the money has been transferred there are multiple attempts to get more money for services that don't exist.

"This scam has been happening here and elsewhere for over 15 years because the scammers find it successful," Hingham police said. "Please talk with elderly parents and grandparents toeducate them. If anyone calls claiming to need bail money (in the form of gift cards, money orders or cash) tell them to pause and call a relative to verify. "

Find out what's happening in Hinghamfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

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