Don't Be Fooled: Get Grandson Out of Jail Call is Likely a Scam

Police are warning elderly residents to think twice before wiring money to a grandchild in trouble abroad. That telephone call for help can be a fake.

Officers responded to two similar incidents in the last month. In both, an elderly resident was called by someone posing as a grandchild who needed money to get out of jail. One of the victims refused to send any money. The other sent two money orders to Lima, Peru in hopes of helping a family member in distress.

Sometimes the caller tries to come across as a police officer or government official requesting bond money for a grandson or daughter, police said. 

The City of Fairfax Police Department is advising citizens to be aware of an ongoing telephone scam targeting elderly individuals.  Citizens responding to fraudulent telephone calls are at risk of significant financial loss.

"The callers will say that in order to speak with their grandson they have to wire money to Lima Peru or to Canada," said Sgt. Joe Johnson of City of Fairfax Police Department. "They request that the money be sent by Western Union and will often call back and request a second payment to secure their grandson’s release."

If you receive a suspicious call:

• Hang up. Don't send any money.
• Contact your telephone company and ask if they can block the caller's number.
• Call police at 703-385-7960

to this type of scam. Officers send out notices to residents when they see an uptick in incidents.