Medford Warned Of New Spin On 'Grandparent Scam'

MEDFORD, MA — A common phone scam has returned to Medford, but police warn the perpetrators are getting more bold in their attempts to steal residents' money.

Known as the "Grandparent Scam," callers will often pretend to be the victim's grandchild or someone speaking on behalf of the grandchild. The caller will claim to be in some sort of trouble and say they need a large amount of money to get out of the situation.

Police said the more sophisticated scammers will sometimes use real information to target people with a grandchild who is living in a different area or is on vacation.

The caller will typically ask for the money via wire or gift cards; however, there have been recent instances of scammers requesting that cash be mailed or picked up by a courier.

"The 'grandchild' will insist that the victim does not tell anyone that they are sending the money, so the scam is not thwarted," Medford police said. "These scammers are extremely smart and will use every tactic to ensure they get the money sent to them."

Police ask that residents "pass this message along to the older adults in your life." If you or someone you know has been a victim of this scam, call Medford police at 781-395-1212.