More charges for Sudbury duo accused in grandparent scams

Two people from Greater Sudbury have been charged with fraud after a senior in French River was scammed out of around $6,000.

The suspects, ages 42 and 26, were charged with similar fraud offences after a victim in Sudbury had about $12,000 stolen in the March 13 grandparent scam.

Ontario Provincial Police began the French River investigation March 14, police said in a news release Monday.

“With the assistance of the Greater Sudbury Police Service, officers were able to identify and charged the involved individuals,” the OPP said.

The pair are charged with fraud over $5,000, laundering the proceeds of crime and possession property obtained by crime over $5,000.

Both accused were released following bail court and are scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Sudbury on April 16.

Sense of urgency

Key to the success of grandparent scams is creating a sense of urgency, police said.

“The victim will receive a frantic phone call from someone claiming to be a grandchild or loved one,” police said.

“The caller will explain that they are involved in some sort of mishap like a car accident, in police custody, or are having trouble returning from a foreign country and need money right away.”

The victim will be told not to tell anyone, and the caller often poses as a law enforcement official, lawyer, or bailiff.

Fraudsters often use information taken from social media to make their claims seem more legitimate by using real names and phone numbers.

‘Don’t tell dad'

“The scammer plays on the victim’s emotions by generating a sense of fear,” police said.

“For instance, they may say, ‘I am scared, and I need help from you.’ The scammer pleads with the victim not to tell anyone about the situation, such as, ‘Please don’t tell dad, he would be so mad.’”

To avoid becoming a victim, check with another family member or trusted friend to verify the information before sending money or providing credit card information by phone or email.

“The OPP will never contact the public to demand cryptocurrency or funds in connection with money laundering or major criminal investigations,” police said.

The toll-free OPP number 1-888-310-1122 is available 24/7 for non-emergency calls in Ontario.

Reports can be made and more information is available from the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre via the online reporting system or by phone at 1-888-495-8501