Scammers are once again trying to extort money using the “grandchild” method. This time, however, in the midst of the pandemic, they are enhancing it. As officers explain, the criminals still call mainly older people. But now they often pretend to be a family member who has contracted COVID and is in very serious condition.

If the victim takes the bait, a quasi-doctor joins the conversation, confirming that the “patient” is indeed in very serious condition and stressing that emergency, life-saving treatment must be started.

Officers:

By informing victims that substantial financial outlays are necessary, scammers try to extort money by preying on the caller’s good nature and fear for the lives of their loved ones. To force a quick response, they apply verbal pressure to older people. To achieve their goal, they can cry on the phone or even shout at the person who refuses to give them money.

They add:

Remember that no patient with COVID-19 has to pay for their treatment. Diagnostics, hospitalization and the medicines administered are all free of charge. If someone calls us and tries to convince us that we must pay for a loved one’s treatment, we should end the call as quickly as possible and dial 112 to inform the police about the attempted fraud.

How not to be scammed?

  • Be cautious when dealing with strangers.
  • Never give money to people you do not know. Do not trust people who claim by phone to be relatives or their friends.
  • Always verify a “request for help” in person: make a phone call or contact the person directly.
  • Any requests for help made by phone, including from abroad, carry the risk of losing money.
  • If someone calls about such a matter and there is any suspicion that it may be fraud, be sure to notify the Police (112)!