Just Hang Up is a new anti-fraud campaign led by the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) in partnership with A&O: Support Services for Older Adults (A&O).
The campaign is made possible by a $134,000 contribution from the Manitoba government’s Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund (CPF). “Older adults in Manitoba have been targeted and victimized through so-called grandparent and emergency scams, which are becoming more sophisticated and can cause significant financial losses and emotional harm,” said Wiebe.
Just Hang Up is aimed at protecting older adults from financial and emotionally devastating outcomes related to prevalent phone scams. Beginning in March; Fraud Prevention month, Just Hang Up highlights the importance of learning prevention strategies by sharing information with older adults and their families who may be targeted by these scams.
During an emergency grandparent scam, fraudsters call individuals after obtaining their phone numbers and sometimes other personal information. They impersonate family members or authority figures, saying there is an emergency involving a loved one. By creating a sense of urgency and panic, victims are pressured to send money. In some cases, artificial intelligence is used to sound convincing, and fraudsters may send a courier to collect the cash quickly.
According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, Manitobans aged 60 and older reported losing nearly $350,000 to these scams in 2024. Frauds are typically under reported due to the emotional toll and stigma associated with being victimized.
Just Hang Up encourages people to stop fraud in its tracks; every early hang up can shut down a scam. The simple message to pause – hang up – verify and report, can help prevent further victimization and assist investigations.
This campaign has a designated JustHangUp.ca online information portal as well as city-wide advertising, including a public awareness video, radio, digital and print ads. In-person group presentations will be delivered by the WPS Community Relations Unit and our community partners, A&O.
“A & O: Support Services for Older Adults is proud to partner with the Winnipeg Police Service to deliver the “Just Hang Up” campaign. The agency remains committed to empowering older people with the knowledge and tools they need to stay safe and age well in their communities”, says CEO Amanda Macrae.
In-person presentations create meaningful dialogue between community members, police and advocates for older adults. Over this six-month campaign, the goal is to engage more than 700 people during these sessions.
More information about fraud awareness and how to book a group presentation is available at JustHangUp.ca
Remember, you are in control, if a call feels suspicious, it’s likely a scam; just hang up – verify and report.