Southern Alberta District Crime Reduction Unit has issued a warning about a surge in grandparent scams. Fraudsters have recently targeted seniors in Cardston, Vulcan, Fort Macleod and Claresholm.

Police arrested one person in connection with the scheme but believe more suspects are involved. The investigation continues, with a detailed update expected this week.

In these recent cases, suspects asked victims to meet them at a bank in Lethbridge.

The scams typically involve phone calls claiming a loved one is in trouble with courts or law enforcement and needs money for help. Suspects often pretend to be police officers, judges or family members. While they usually ask for cash, they may also request payment in gift cards, bitcoin or e-transfers.

RCMP remind residents that bail is always paid in person at a courthouse or correctional centre. Never send money to anyone you don’t know. If someone claims to be a police officer or judge, call that police service or courthouse directly to confirm the situation.

Police and courts will never demand cash pickup or mailed payments and will not ask for personal information over the phone.

Anyone who has fallen victim to this or any other scam should call their local RCMP. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre should also be notified at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca or 1-888-495-8501.

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View approximate locations of thefts, break and enters, missing persons and high-crime areas in Alberta here.

If you see a crime in progress or need police assistance in an emergency, call 911.

Anonymous reporting through Crime Stoppers and cash rewards

Crime Stoppers allows tip sharing without disclosing personal information. An ID number and password are provided to follow up on tip status or add details.

Cash rewards up to $2,000 may be available for tips leading to an arrest. Higher payouts apply to serious crimes like murder, sexual assault, drug and weapon seizures, and human trafficking.

Call in your tip: 1-800-222-8477 Submit tip online

Online crime reporting (under $5,000)

If you are the victim of property crime such as theft or vandalism under $5,000, online reporting is available 24/7.

Contact your local RCMP or Crime Stoppers with information about illegal activity.

• Pincher Creek RCMP – 403-627-6000
• Crowsnest Pass RCMP – 403-562-2866
• Piikani Nation RCMP – 403-965-2000
• Other Alberta detachments
• Canadian RCMP detachments