Mississauga man charged in ‘grandparent scam’ attempt on senior
Posted January 5, 2023 3:50 pm.
A Mississauga man has been charged after he allegedly tried to scam a senior by calling her and demanding several thousand dollars, saying her niece was in jail and the money was needed to secure her release.
Police say the 85-year-old Innisfil woman told her sister about the calls on January 4, 2023.
Her sister called police.
“The man told the senior someone would be at her home in an hour to pick up the cash, which was several thousand dollars,” South Simcoe police said in a release.
“The victim was alone at the time and fearing for her safety, told her sister, who called police. Officers attended the scene and arrested a suspect.”
Police say the woman did not lose any money, thanks to her sister calling the police promptly.
Mikhael Noriega is facing a charge of Fraud over $5,000.
Police say the so-called “grandparent scam” usually involves someone calling a senior and saying a loved one is in trouble, then demanding large sums of money.
“Hang up the call and contact a family member to verify the story or call police for help,” police advised.
“Never provide personal or financial information to an unknown caller or anyone whose identity you have not confirmed. Residents, please speak to the seniors in your life and remind them about these scams.”
