My parent sent money for a fake family emergency. What now?

Reviewed answer

Contact the payment provider immediately and help your parent without blame.

Call the bank, transfer company, gift card issuer, or delivery company immediately. Ask whether the money or shipment can be stopped.
Contact the real family member using a number you already know. Tell your parent this was a deliberate deception.
Save receipts and messages. In the US, report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and contact local police if cash was collected.

Get help if

If a courier is coming or someone is making threats, contact police and avoid confronting the person.