OPP INVESTIGATE GRANDPARENT SCAM IN ROCKWOOD

OPP Seeking Public Assistance

(GUELPH-ERAMOSA TOWNSHIP, ON) - a Rockwood resident is out $5,000 after falling victim to a ‘grandparent scam’.

On November 15, 2025, at approximately 12:15 pm, members of the Wellington County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to a report of fraud occurring at a residence in Rockwood at approximately 1:00 pm the day prior. An unknown individual contacted the victim, pretending to be their son, suggesting they had been arrested and were in police custody.

A second unknown individual joined the phone conversation with the victim, claiming to be a lawyer, indicating that for their son to be released from custody, the victim would need to provide a “cash bond” of $5,000.

A few hours later, an individual attended the victim’s home to collect the cash and advised the money would be transported to court. The victim realized they had been scammed and contacted police.

Members of the Wellington County OPP are continuing to investigate this incident and are appealing to the public for assistance in identifying the suspect and vehicle involved.

Suspect is described as:

• Male
• Brown
• Identified themselves as “Ahmed”

Vehicle is described as:

• Honda CRV
• White
• “Older model”

of vehicle for reference.

Ontario Provincial Police Occurrence #: E251545897.

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.