(NORFOLK COUNTY, ON) - The Norfolk County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is warning residents after a grandparent scam resulted in a significant financial loss for a local resident.

At approximately 6:06 pm on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, the Norfolk County OPP responded to a report of fraud at a Simcoe address.

The investigation determined that the victim received a phone call from an individual claiming to be a family member who urgently required financial assistance to be released from jail. Believing the call to be legitimate, the victim transferred approximately $6,000 to the suspect.

Shortly after, the victim was contacted again and advised that an additional $5,000 was required to cover legal fees. The victim later realized they had been scammed and contacted police.

What is a Grandparent Scam?

Grandparent scams, also known as emergency scams, typically involve a suspect posing as a grandchild or other family member in urgent trouble, often claiming to have been arrested, in an accident, or stranded in another country. The scammer pressures the victim to send money immediately and often asks them to keep the matter secret from other family members.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Stop and verify before sending money. Contact the family member directly using a known phone number
• Speak to other relatives or friends before acting on urgent requests for money
• Be cautious of payment requests via e-transfer, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or cash couriers
• Never give out personal or financial information to unexpected callers

FRAUD: Recognize. Reject. Report.