This Grandparents Day (Sept. 13), skip the secret handshake and create a secret password instead. Jordan Wright with the Better Business Bureau’s Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM Newsradio explains why.
Grandparent scams are becoming more convincing than ever. Scammers call pretending to be a grandchild in trouble, often claiming there's been an accident, arrest, or emergency. Now, with AI technology, they can even imitate voices to make the calls seem real.
The scam relies on urgency. One simple way to protect your family is to establish a code word known only to close relatives. If a caller claims to be a loved one in distress, ask for the code word first.
Most importantly, don't react in the moment. Verify the situation independently, and talk with another family member before sending any money.
For more information, go to BBB.org/ChicagoBuzz or WBBMNewsradio.com.
