Grandparents Scam Hitting Tri-Cities – Watch for Suspicious Phone Calls

Kennewick police are cautioning citizens -especially grandparents - to use caution if they get a certain type of suspicious phone call.

Police say a number of people have reported receiving a call from a person who starts the conversation by saying "Hi Grandpa" or "Grandma."  Police say the scammers are hoping to "hit" a home or phone where they are actually speaking to a grandparent.

The caller then tries to convince the person they are their grandchild, they are in trouble and need them to send money.  If it sounds ludicrous, it is - but it's worked. At least one Kennewick resident reported sending $1,000 to the Dominican Republic after getting such a scam phone call.

Police say if you get such a call, without giving any personal, sensitive information, try to get as much as you can from the caller. Write down the number they called from, and turn all information over to the police.