Regina police have announced the arrest of two individuals in connection with a series of so-called "grandparent" or "emergency" scams that have been targeting older adults in the area. The charges follow an investigation into multiple incidents where seniors were defrauded of significant sums of money.
Details of the Arrests and Investigation
The Regina Police Service confirmed the arrests on December 6, 2025. While the identities of the suspects have not been publicly released, authorities state the investigation is ongoing and focused on a specific scam operation. To date, police have confirmed six separate cases linked to this scheme within the Regina region. These scams typically involve a fraudster posing as a grandchild or other family member in urgent need of money for bail, legal fees, or medical emergencies.
Investigators believe the scammers use pressure tactics and exploit the victims' concern for their loved ones to convince them to withdraw and hand over large amounts of cash, often through a courier. The emotional manipulation is a hallmark of this type of financial crime, which has seen a troubling rise across Canada.
How the Grandparent Scam Operates
This predatory fraud relies on creating a sense of panic and secrecy. The caller, often claiming to be a panicked grandchild, will say they are in jail, have been in a car accident, or are stranded in a foreign country. They plead for money to be sent immediately, usually requesting cash or wire transfers. The scammer will insist the victim not tell anyone else in the family, citing embarrassment or a desire to keep the incident quiet.
The fraudsters frequently use information gleaned from social media to make their stories more convincing, mentioning specific names or details to build trust. Once money is received, the scammers often contact the victim again with escalating demands for more funds.
Protecting Yourself and Your Family
Regina police are urging the public, especially seniors and their families, to be vigilant. They recommend a few key steps to avoid falling victim:
- Verify the caller's identity by hanging up and calling the family member directly at a known, trusted number.
- Be suspicious of any call demanding immediate payment, especially in cash, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.
- Never provide personal or financial information over the phone to an unsolicited caller.
- Discuss these scams with older family members and establish a family code word for genuine emergencies.
The arrests in Regina represent a significant step in combating this form of elder abuse. However, police caution that these criminal networks are often sophisticated and widespread. Anyone who believes they have been targeted is encouraged to contact the Regina Police Service or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre immediately. Public awareness and reporting are crucial tools in disrupting these operations and protecting vulnerable community members.
