Grandma Scam Victim

https://www.oakbaynews.com/news/oak-bay-senior-scammed-of-cash/. Unfortunately, earlier this week my mother-in-law Marilyn was scammed out of $8900. I honestly never thought it would happen to her, but here we are. Someone called and said, “Hi Grandma”. Marilyn was without her hearing aid and thought it was my son Casey, so she replied, “Hi Casey”, giving the scammer her grandson’s name. Long story short, “Casey” said he had been in a car accident in a friend’s car while texting. He said the guy he hit was from Montreal and was flying home and in order to not press charges, he needed the repairs paid for in cash, couriers to his home in Montreal. “Casey” put a “police officer” on the phone who confirmed the story. The fake Casey asked her not to tell mom and dad. Unfortunately Marilyn agreed to not tell us, which prevented her from calling us to see what was really going on. The boys, while old enough to drive, do not yet have their learner’s permits, which Marilyn does know. These bastards prey on vulnerable seniors and the emotional response they have to their loved ones being in trouble. Marilyn sent $8900 to Montreal, in cash. The next day the scammers tried again which set off some alarm bells. Marilyn went to school to see if Casey was there (he was supposedly at the Victoria police station) and then not finding him, checked at home. He was here eating lunch and my husband and I were at work. She then went to the bank and they connected her with the Oak Bay police. Marilyn is obviously really shaken, sad and ashamed. She is now having to worry about finances. She is talking about selling her car, which would severely limit her independence and prevent her from participating in many of her charitable activities, most notably Grandmothers for Africa. We’re trying to find a way to replace the funds she lost, which is $8900. We’re not telling her about this campaign because she is too proud. We’re also worried that this will be a life-altering blow to her confidence, which is already a struggle for her as she ages. She is 77 years old. If you are able to donate even a small amount, it will help her out. Her car insurance is due at the end of the calendar year, which we will cover if we can. Please be careful when answering the phone, and encourage the seniors in your life to do the same. The Oak Bay Police said they are getting at least five complaints a week about this scam. We will also set up an account at her bank for those not comfortable donating online. We’ll update this post when it’s done. Thanks so much