Family impostor scams occur when a scammer pretends to be a victim's family member, like a grandchild, to create a fake emergency. Although often called "grandparent scams," these scams can target any family relationship. This type of fraud is highly manipulative, playing on older adults' love and concern for family. Staying aware of these tactics and keeping open communication within families can help protect vulnerable individuals from financial and emotional harm.
How Family Impostor Scam works?
Scammer contacts the elderly victim, posing as their child or grandchild, often using the victim’s name and claiming to be in trouble (e.g., accident, arrest).
Scammers use social media to learn personal details (like family info and recent events) to make the impersonation more convincing.
The scammer speaks in a distressed or altered voice (sometimes crying) to hide their identity and increase urgency.
The scammer insists that money must be sent immediately to avoid severe consequences.
They ask the victim not to tell anyone, often saying it’s due to embarrassment or fear of more trouble.
With Artificial Intelligence (AI), scammers can now mimic a loved one’s voice, making their impersonation even more realistic.
After the initial scam, potentially another scammer may pose as a lawyer or police officer to add urgency and legitimacy to the story.
Things to keep in mind:
Don’t take immediate action. Take a moment to think rationally about the call you're receiving.
Hang up if you're unsure who is calling or if you receive an unusual request. Then, call the supposed caller using the number you normally use. If you can't reach them, contact another friend or family member who might know their whereabouts.
Ask the caller a question only your grandchild would know, like a family memory or inside joke.
Set up a code word with family and close friends for identity verification, ask for this word to verify if the caller is truly one of them.
Never share personal or financial information over the phone with unfamiliar callers.
Strengthen your social media privacy settings and limit what you share publicly.
Rest assured that CelcomDigi is actively taking measures to ensure our customers do not fall prey to such scams.