South Dundas resident victim of grandparent scam

(Newswatch Group/Bill Kingston, File)

SOUTH DUNDAS – Provincial police say a person in South Dundas is out thousands of dollars after a fraudster posed as a police officer.

Ontario Provincial Police say the victim was contacted to say their grandson was in jail and “someone posing as a courier attended” their home to “retrieve almost $10,000.”

Police were notified on Friday about the crime and, so far, no one has been arrested or charged.

Acting Sgt. Erin Cranton told Cornwall Newswatch there are no distinct leads at this time.

OPP remind people to talk to their loved ones about this type of scam, which plays on fear and secrecy to get money for an urgent matter, such as a relative in trouble with the law.

They say the best advice is to check with another family member or friend before sending any money or providing credit card information.