(KRON) — A Rohnert Park man lost $6,000 this week after falling victim to the “grandparent scam,” according to police. The scammer posed as the man’s grandson and used “fear-based tactics and a false sense of urgency” to make off with the victim’s cash.
The scammer, posing as the grandson, told the victim that he had been arrested for driving under the influence and was “too embarrassed and fearful to tell his parents,” the Rohnert Park Police Department said. The voice of the pretend grandson was not exactly right, but it was explained by the scammer that he sustained injuries in an accident that affected his ability to speak normally.
The grandpa was then contacted by a fake law enforcement representative who demanded $6,000 for his grandson’s bail, authorities said. The victim withdrew the money from his bank and gave it to a driver.
“For many, this situation might sound unbelievable, but scams like these are sophisticated and target people across all demographics,” Rohnert Park PD said. “Scammers use personal details gleaned from the internet and AI technology to create urgency and confusion, tricking even the most intelligent and careful individuals.”
Police urged residents to prevent scams by protecting personal information, not rushing into action based on fear or threats, and avoiding unsolicited contact via email, text or phone calls.
