WASHINGTON, D.C., Feb. 27, 2025—Grandparents often have a hard time saying no to their grandchildren, something scam artists know all too well.

Scammers who gain access to consumers’ personal information—by mining social media or purchasing data from cyber thieves—can create storylines to prey on the fears of grandparents.

Grandparent scams happen when scammers call and impersonate a grandchild—or another close relative—in a crisis situation, asking for immediate financial assistance. Sometimes these callers “spoof” the caller ID to make an incoming call appear to be coming from a trusted source.

Often the imposter claims to have been in an accident or arrested. The scammer may ask the grandparent “please don’t let mom and dad know,” and may hand the phone over to someone posing as a lawyer seeking immediate payment.

Bad actors are now using artificial intelligence technology, commonly known as AI, and a short audio or video clip to “clone” a loved one’s voice, according to the Federal Trade Commission.

Several variations of the grandparent scam have surfaced throughout the years. A U.S. Postal Inspection Service webpage about grandparent scams includes videos of victims sharing their stories to help raise awareness of this criminal tactic.

Be vigilant

Scammers often try to bully victims into transferring money through a mobile payment app, by wiring money or by purchasing gift cards or money orders. Some may even request to meet to receive money in person.

People who suspect the caller is a scammer should hang up and report it immediately to local law enforcement. They can also call or text family members directly to make sure they’re not in trouble.

Tips avoid being scammed

One of the best deterrents against scam artists is awareness. The FCC has consumer guides on spoofed caller ID and illegal robocalls, with additional tips and web resources for call-blocking apps and services.

There are also consumer awareness articles about scams targeting older Americans on the Better Business Bureau website, and information about scams can be found using the AARP Fraud Watch Network Scam-Tracking Map.

File a complaint

People who receive unwanted calls or spoofed calls can file a consumer complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.

Federal Trade Commission release