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Grandparent and family-emergency scams

A call or text says a child or grandchild is in a crash, in jail, or in trouble. They want secrecy and a fast payment. Hang up. Call the family member on a number you already have / not the number in the message.

First-hour steps

  1. Verify with a known number before you send anything.

  2. Do not wire money, buy gift cards, or drop cash with a courier.

  3. If money already left, call the bank and file police + FTC + IC3.

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