KAWARTHA LAKES-The Kawartha Lakes Police Service has arrested two individuals in connection with reported grandparent scam incidents.
A 63-year-old male victim was defrauded of $9000 after receiving a call that their nephew is in jail and needed money for bail on January 24th. An individual then attended his residence and retrieved the cash.
Later the same day, a 78-year-old male received a call advising that their grandson was in jail and money was needed to grant him bail.
The victim called police.
Police responded to the victim’s residence, where they say they located and arrested the suspect.
49-year-old Yannick Galarneau of Bois Des Fillion, Quebec has been charged with Fraud Over $5000 X2.
On the same day, a 90-year-old male was contacted and advised that his granddaughter was arrested.
The subject advised that a payment of $9200 was required for his granddaughter to be granted bail.
After becoming suspicious of the all, the victim contacted a family member who confirmed that his granddaughter was not in jail and police were called.
Police responded and report locating a male approaching the home of the alleged victim.
Through investigation, 26-year-old Mohamed Mahmood of Hamilton has been charged with Fraud Over $5000.
The accused individuals have been held in custody for a bail hearing.
On Wednesday, January 25, 2023 police say officers continue to receive multiple complaints of grandparent scam calls.
To protect yourself and others from this scam, consider the following:
- Don’t get flustered. Take time to think. The scammer will make it sound urgent to pressure you.
- Do not confirm any personal or financial information.
- Verify who is calling (offer to call back using the phone number you have for that person).
- Call someone you trust or police for an opinion about the call (scammers will say they don’t want anyone to know because they are embarrassed).
- Do not send any money.
If you believe you have been a victim of a similar scam, you can file a complaint with the Kawartha Lakes Police Service at 705.324.5252 or contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre .
