RCMP are looking to identify this man in connection to a grandparents scam in the Battlefords area. (RCMP/supplied)

By battlefordsNOW Staff

CRIME

UPDATED: RCMP looking for man connected to ‘grandparent’ scams in the Battlefords

Jan 9, 2026 | 5:07 PM

Update: Jan. 16 – 3:54 p.m.

Battlefords RCMP are now looking to identify a man in connection to the recent “grandparent” scams in the Battlefords area.

As a result of investigation over the last week, police used surveillance video to single out a person of interest in relation to the scams. In the scam, callers claim a victim’s grandchild has been involved in an emergency — often a serious collision — and urgently needs money to avoid being jailed or to secure bail.

Anyone who recognizes the man is urged to contact police at 310-RCMP (7267). Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

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Original story:

Next time you check in with your parents or grandparents, it may be worth sharing one simple reminder: real emergencies don’t come with urgent bail demands over the phone.

Police in the Battlefords are warning residents, particularly seniors, to be on alert after receiving multiple reports of so-called “grandparent” scams.

Battlefords RCMP said the fraudulent calls were reported on Friday and involve scammers posing as a trusted source to create a sense of urgency and fear.

In the scam, callers claim a victim’s grandchild has been involved in an emergency — often a serious collision — and urgently needs money to avoid being jailed or to secure bail.

In some cases, victims are told someone will come to their home to collect cash in person.

The calls are not legitimate and are designed to pressure victims into acting quickly without verifying the information .

Investigators said scammers are primarily targeting elderly people and may use the real name of a victim’s loved one to make the call seem more believable.

“If you receive a similar phone call, hang up immediately. Do not provide any information to the caller or follow through with their request,” the RCMP said in a release.

Police are urging residents to trust their instincts and take time to confirm any claims with family members by calling a number they know is legitimate.

Requests for payment using gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency are common red flags, according to RCMP. They also warn never to share credit card information over the phone or make large cash withdrawals without first speaking directly to a bank representative .

Anyone who believes they may have been targeted or victimized is asked to report it to police by calling 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously through Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) .

More information on identifying and preventing fraud is available through the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com