Nanaimo RCMP say the “grandson” scam left a woman out $2,000.
Police said the woman was contacted on Oct. 14 by a man who claimed to be from out of province and identified himself as Tom Scott.
He told the victim her grandson had been arrested, had broken his nose and needed money to be released from police custody.
Believing the story, the woman followed directions to a local bitcoin machine and sent the money.
Police said the man continued to call even after the transfer was made, but a family member intercepted one of the calls and told him police had been notified.
Nanaimo RCMP are reminding residents that any request for bitcoin, money or gift cards from someone claiming to be law enforcement is a scam.
