The best defense is slowing down and checking the story before acting.
A local tech expert says seniors and their families can take quick, practical steps to protect themselves from the growing “grandparent scam,” over the holidays.
You know the story by now. It's where fraudsters pretend to be a relative in trouble and pressure victims to send money fast.
Jesse Hirsch says the best defense is slowing down and checking the story before acting. He adds that families should talk openly about scams so everyone knows what to do if a suspicious call comes in.
Hirsch says using safer payment tools can also reduce the impact if a scammer gains access.
He says newer credit card policies also make it easier for relatives to report fraudulent purchases.
Hirsch warns that timing is the scammer’s biggest weapon. The challenge, he says, is recognizing the scam before money is sent.
Police and fraud agencies encourage residents to pause, verify and never rush into financial decisions during a stressful call.
Story by Bob Perreault
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