Wigan grandparents urged to be aware of phone scam

CPR Call Blocker is urging the public, in particular grandparents, in the area to beware if they receive a call from an apparent relative (normally a grandchild) in distress or someone claiming to represent the relative (such as a lawyer or police officer).

The scam, which has been conning grandparents across the US, sees the “relative” explain they’re in trouble and that they need their grandparent to send them funds that will be used for a fictitious expense that they need to pay urgently.

The victim is urged not to tell anyone, such as the parent of the “grandchild” because they don’t want them to find out about the trouble they’re in. The grandparent never hears from their fake relative again and is tricked out of hundreds or even thousands.

Chelsea Davies, CPR Call Blocker Business Development Manager, said: “In our experience of working across the US and UK, scams spread quickly across the pond so it is sensible for grandparents in the North West to be on their guard.”

CPR Call Blocker recommends:

Beware of any urgent request for money, especially to pay for an unexpected fee such as lawyers fees;

Before sending funds, independently contact the relative the scammer is claiming to be (or represent) at a known phone number to verify the details of the story;

Be aware that scammers may call late at night to confuse potential victims.

If you want to stop receiving scam and nuisance calls, consider getting a call blocker.