1. a) What is the “Grandparent scam” - how do the scammers succeed? Be specific.
b) CBS News interviewed a scammer who was arrested as he is waiting for sentencing. How much did this man say he made with this scam?

2. In his experience, how many people would fall for his scam?

3. Why do these scammers target seniors?

4. What effect does this scam have on those who are duped?

5. a) What do you think of the scammer’s excuse/rationale for what “drove him” to take advantage of grandparents? - why did he say he did it?
b) He says he feels remorse - what other reason do you think he has for saying so, and for giving the interview?
c) Do you think he feels remorse for his criminal actions, or regret at getting caught? Explain your answer.

6. a) Why aren’t there any statistics on the number of grandparents who have been scammed?
b) Why is it so difficult for police to catch these despicable criminals?

7. What suggestion does the scammer make as a way for grandparents to ensure they are really talking to their own grandchild?

8. In addition to this CBS report, recent news stories have been published from Virginia to Arizona to Connecticut. See “Resources” below the questions.
a) In the 2nd video, when the Grandmother tells her “grandson” she doesn’t have any money because she has cancer, does she think he feels bad about that? What does she say?
b) Read the “Background” with suggestions the FBI to avoid being the victim of this scam. Talk to your grandparents about this article and ask them to pass it on to their friends.