Back-to-School Scams: How Criminals Use Grandchildren to Target Older Adults

By Eugene Bruno on July 8, 2026

As the back-to-school season begins, families are busy shopping for supplies, preparing schedules, and helping students transition into a new school year. Unfortunately, scammers know this, and they often use family connections to prey on older adults.

One of the most common schemes is the “grandparent scam,” where criminals pretend to be a grandchild or someone calling on the grandchild’s behalf. They claim the child needs money immediately for a school-related emergency, tuition, books, or another urgent expense.

Here’s how these scams work and how families can help protect their aging loved ones.

What Is the Grandparent Scam?

The scam typically begins with an unexpected phone call, text message, or email.

The scammer may say:

• “Grandma, I lost my wallet at college.”
• “I need money for tuition, or I can’t register for classes.”
• “I’m stranded and need help getting home.”
• “I was in an accident on the way to school.”
• “Don’t tell Mom or Dad – I just need you to wire me the money.”

The goal is to create panic, so the grandparent acts before verifying the story.

Why Do These Scams Increase During Back-to-School Season?

Back-to-school season gives scammers a believable excuse for asking for money. Many families are discussing tuition payments, dorm expenses, textbooks, laptops, and transportation, making these requests seem more legitimate.

Scammers may also use information found on social media to make their stories sound convincing, such as mentioning a grandchild’s college, sports team, or recent move.

Warning Signs of a Scam

Watch for these red flags:

• A request for money “right away.”
• Instructions to keep the situation secret.
• Requests for payment through wire transfers, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or payment apps.
• Someone claiming a parent, teacher, lawyer, or police officer is calling on behalf of your grandchild.
• Pressure to act before contacting another family member.

Legitimate emergencies rarely require immediate payment through unusual methods.

How Families Can Help Protect Older Loved Ones

The best defense against these scams is communication.

Encourage aging parents or grandparents to:

• Hang up and call the grandchild directly using a known phone number.
• Contact another trusted family member before sending money.
• Never share banking or personal information with unexpected callers.
• Be skeptical of requests for secrecy or urgency.

Some families even establish a “family password” that only close relatives know. If someone calls claiming to be a grandchild in an emergency, asking for the password can quickly expose a scam.

When Financial Exploitation Becomes Elder Abuse

Financial exploitation is one of the fastest-growing forms of elder abuse. While many scams are committed by strangers, older adults may also be financially exploited by caregivers, acquaintances, or even trusted individuals.

If you notice unusual bank withdrawals, missing funds, changes to financial accounts, or an elderly loved one suddenly sending money to unknown individuals, it’s important to investigate the situation promptly.

Back-to-school season should be filled with excitement, not anxiety. Taking a few simple precautions can help older adults avoid scams that prey on their love for their families. By staying connected and encouraging open communication, families can help protect aging loved ones from financial exploitation.

Trusted Elder Abuse Attorneys in San Diego

The experienced San Diego elder abuse lawyers at Eugene Bruno & Associates are here to help. If you or a loved one has been scammed, call 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688) to learn more today.