Scams targeting seniors are nothing new, but the tactics are becoming more advanced—and more personal. One of the most disturbing schemes gaining traction in 2025 is the “Grandchild Scam.” What makes it so dangerous is the use of artificial intelligence to mimic the voice of a loved one. Scammers can now clone a grandchild’s voice and make a distress call that sounds heartbreakingly real. These criminals rely on urgency, emotion, and confusion to get what they want: access to your bank account. Fortunately, there are clear ways to recognize and shut down this scam before any damage is done.
1. Start with a Simple Question: Are You in Physical Danger?
When receiving an unexpected call from someone claiming to be your grandchild in trouble, your first instinct may be to panic. Instead, pause and ask a direct question: “Are you in physical danger?” A scammer mimicking your grandchild may try to stir up emotions and rush you into sending money, but this question forces them to respond clearly. Scammers often get thrown off by yes-or-no questions that require specific answers, and their hesitation or vagueness can be a warning sign. It also helps you determine if there’s any urgency at all, or if the caller is trying to manipulate you emotionally.
2. Say You’re Calling the Police
One effective way to test the caller’s authenticity is to say you’re going to contact the police right away. If the person on the line is truly in danger, they’ll likely welcome the help. A scammer, on the other hand, will usually backpedal quickly, urging you not to involve law enforcement. That response is a major red flag. They may offer excuses or try to guilt you into acting quietly, which is exactly what they want—an isolated decision made under stress. Standing firm and stating your intent to call the authorities can disrupt the scam and often ends the conversation altogether.
3. Hang Up and Call Your Grandchild Directly
If you’re ever unsure about a call, the safest next step is to hang up and call your grandchild using the number you already have. Scammers rely on spoofed or unfamiliar phone numbers, and they often claim their phone was lost or broken to justify why they’re calling from a different one. Don’t fall for it. By ending the call and dialing the known number, you take control of the situation. Nine times out of ten, your grandchild will answer and have no idea what you’re talking about. That’s when you’ll know for sure that it was a scam.
4. Set Up a Personal Code Word
A smart preventive measure is to create a private code word shared only between you and your grandchild. This can be anything from a favorite animal to a childhood nickname—something easy to remember but hard to guess. If you ever receive a suspicious call, you can ask the caller to tell you the code word. If they don’t know it or hesitate, you’ll know something’s off. Even if you haven’t set up a code word beforehand, simply asking for one can be enough to confuse a scammer and make them end the call. It adds a layer of security that costs nothing but can make all the difference.
Stay Alert and Share the Knowledge
Fraudsters are getting smarter, but so can you. These scams depend on speed, fear, and secrecy. Slowing things down and asking the right questions can help expose their lies. Whether you’re a senior yourself or you have aging parents or grandparents, talking about these risks and having a plan can prevent serious financial and emotional harm. Staying informed is one of the best defenses we have—and sharing this information might help someone you care about avoid becoming a target.
