Consumer Protection Division warns against AI grandparent scam targeting Utah residents

The Utah government meeting on April 17, 2025, focused on raising awareness about AI imposter scams, particularly the alarming trend of grandparent scams. These scams involve fraudsters impersonating a grandchild, often claiming to be in urgent trouble and requesting money through unconventional methods like Venmo or cryptocurrency.

During the meeting, officials explained how these scams typically unfold. Scammers may call and pretend to be a grandchild, using personal information to sound convincing. They often create a sense of urgency, urging victims to send money quickly to resolve a fabricated crisis. Officials emphasized that legitimate situations do not require payment through nontraditional methods, and any request for immediate financial assistance should be treated with caution.

To combat these scams, the meeting encouraged families to establish a secret passcode or question that can verify the identity of family members during such calls. This practice mirrors traditional safety measures used for children, ensuring that only trusted individuals can communicate sensitive information.

Participants were urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious calls to the Division of Consumer Protection. Reporting these incidents helps authorities track scam trends and alert the public. The state has also launched a dedicated website, scams.utah.gov, to provide resources and information about various scams affecting residents.

The meeting underscored the importance of awareness and communication among family members to prevent falling victim to these deceptive tactics. By fostering open discussions and implementing safety measures, Utah residents can better protect themselves from AI imposter scams.