Saskatchewan RCMP is issuing a fresh warning to the public as the “grandparent scam” continues to evolve, with fraudsters now using cryptocurrency, artificial intelligence and the names of real lawyers to defraud residents.
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Recent reports from the Battlefords and White Butte areas highlight a disturbing trend in how these scammers operate. In April, one victim in the Battlefords lost a significant amount of cash to a fraudster who required them to use a specific name and “passcode” during the transaction.
According to investigators, modern iterations of the scam frequently involve crypto-currency. Scammers are now directing victims to take physical cash to a crypto ATM and use a provided barcode to deposit the funds directly into a digital wallet, making the money nearly impossible to recover.
To add a layer of perceived legitimacy, many scammers have begun using the names of actual local lawyers in their correspondence.
“Stop! They will create a sense of urgency, making you feel like you need to act fast,” the RCMP said in a statement. “If something feels off or you feel uneasy, call your loved one directly to verify if the situation is real — don’t rely on the scammer’s word.”
Earlier this week, the White Butte Detachment received two separate reports from residents in the Pilot Butte area. In those instances, scammers attempted to arrange in-person meetings to collect money. Fortunately, the residents reported the suspicious activity to police before any money changed hands.
The scam typically involves emotional manipulation, where a caller claims to be a family member — often a grandchild — who has been arrested and needs immediate funds for bail or legal fees.
Police noted that scammers are increasingly using details harvested from social media and dating apps, and in some cases, using AI to mimic voices or create a sense of familiarity.
RCMP are reminding the public of several “bail facts” to help identify a potential fraud:
- Police, lawyers, judges, or correctional facilities will never call to solicit money.
- Bail and fines are paid exclusively at a courthouse.
- There is no such thing as a “court-appointed courier” who comes to a private residence to pick up payments.
Anyone who believes they are being targeted or has lost money to a scam is urged to call 310-RCMP or report the incident to their local police service and banking institution immediately.
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