Grandparent Call Scams Prompt Warning In Northampton Twp.

NORTHAMPTON TOWNSHIP, PA —The Northampton Township Police Department has issued a warning to residents after a recent rash of grandparent call scams earlier this month.

Police are asking residents to talk to their family members after two residents reported receiving calls from somebody saying their grandchild is hurt or in trouble and needs money.

"Please talk to any seniors that you may have in your family or senior neighbors," police said. "Make sure they are aware of the scam calls trying to get money on behalf of their grandchild."

On Feb. 4, police said they received a report that a resident received a phone call from a man who stated, “Grandmom, I need help. I’ve been in an accident and I need a $10,000 bond.”

The resident told the caller to call their father and hung up. The resident then called to check to make sure their grandson was safe and they were, police said.

On Feb. 3, a resident called police headquarters to report receiving a scam phone call.

The resident said they got a call stating their granddaughter was in a bad car accident and was arrested.

The caller requested that the resident not tell anyone and to go to the bank and get $9,000 in cash.

The resident recognized the call as a scam from a prior informational presentation from the police department and ended the call.