Scam Types
Grandparent Scams
Scam type — FTC & BBB data
Fraud reports are categorized by type. Below we summarize national statistics and how to avoid this scam.
Last updated: March 2026
FTC Consumer Sentinel (national)
- Reports: 28,000
- Total loss: $145M
- Median loss: $9,000
BBB Scam Tracker 2024
- Reports 2024: 2,134
- Risk score: 8.5
- Median loss: $9,000
- Top contact: Phone
What is this scam?
Scammers impersonate grandchildren or law enforcement claiming a family member is in trouble and needs immediate financial help.
How to avoid & report
- Never send money or gift cards to someone you have not met in person.
- Verify contact details independently (official website, phone number).
- Report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- File a complaint with the BBB at bbb.org/file-a-complaint.
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