PIERRE, S.D. (KELO.com) -- The so-called 'Grandparent' scam has resurfaced with a vengeance across South Dakota.
State Attorney General Marty Jackley says there have been at least three confirmed victims, scammed out of cash ranging from $17,000 to $145,000.
The Consumer Protection Office has received 8 reports in just two days.
“This is a plea from your Attorney General to talk with friends, neighbors and coworkers to make sure they are checking on the seniors they know and care about to discuss this scam,” says Jackley.
A typical scam is someone claiming to be a grandchild calls, urgently asking for money for an emergency or to get out of a jam. Jackley says the scammers are getting increasingly sophisticated. Sometimes, a scammer will pose as the fake grandchild's lawyer, right on the phone.
Jackley says one senior received a call, telling her there was a gag order in place and if she spoke to anyone regarding the matter her grandchild would be prosecuted. In the past these scammers would insist on a wire transfer. The current reports involve the victims sending cash, wrapped in paper, and sent via a shipping company.