WEST Vancouver Police on Thursday warned the public of a sharp spike in attempted “grandparent scams” during the day.

By 2 p.m., police had already received approximately 30 calls about attempted frauds using the grandparent model. Specifically, seniors receive a call from someone claiming to be a grandchild. The grandchild says they have been arrested for driving while impaired and causing a collision. They indicate they are being held in jail and need money (usually $7,000) for bail.

The fraudster indicates that a bail bondsman or lawyer will come to the grandparent’s home later in the day to pick up the money. The grandparent is encouraged to go straight to the bank and make a cash withdrawal.

“Fortunately, we have had no reports of this scam being successful, but we are aware that the District of West Vancouver appears to be being specifically targeted today,” said a police spokesperson.

If you have any concerns about this type of fraud, contact the West Vancouver Police at 604-925-7300.