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Is the call saying my grandchild is in jail a scam?

A typical version of this message
Grandma? It's me. I was in a car accident and I'm in jail. My nose is broken, that's why I sound different. Please don't tell Mom and Dad. My lawyer is going to call you in a few minutes — he says you need to post $8,000 bail today or I stay here all weekend.
Why it is a grandparent scam
Yes — this is the grandparent scam, and it takes more money from older adults than almost any other. Every piece is engineered: the injured voice explains why it doesn't sound like your grandchild, the secrecy stops you checking with family, and the deadline stops you thinking. Some versions now use AI to clone the grandchild's real voice from social media clips. Real courts never demand bail by gift card, wire, courier, or same-day cash.
What to do
Hang up, even if the voice sounds right. Call your grandchild or their parents on the numbers you already have — in almost every case they are fine and know nothing about it. Agree on a family code word for real emergencies. If money was already sent, call your bank immediately and report it at ic3.gov — speed matters.

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Checked by Double Check on August 31, 2026. This page documents a widely reported scam pattern; the example wording is representative, with links and personal details replaced. See more in the scam guide or recent answers.