'Grandparent Scam' On Rise In North Kingstown

NORTH KINGSTOWN, RI — North Kingstown police warned the public that "grandparent scams" are on the rise over the last few days.

"Grandparent scams typically work something like this. A loved one receives a call from a person claiming to an attorney or a court official and tell you your grandchild needs money to get out of jail or some sort of trouble," police said in a statement. "Sometimes the caller, in a frantic sounding voice, pretends to be a grandchild asking for financial help. The story line can be different, but one thing is the same, the caller wants you to give them cash."

Police urged residents to speak with their parents and grandparents about this scam and to call a family member or the police before withdrawing any money.

Any suspicious activity can be reported to North Kingstown police at 401-294-3311.