To carry out a virtual kidnapping scam, fraudsters call unsuspecting people and claim that they have kidnapped a loved one. They demand ransom payment, usually through wire transfer, to release the “hostage.”
Receiving a fake ransom call is scary – but it’s important not to panic! Here’s what to do if you receive a call from someone claiming to hold your family member for ransom:
- Hang up the phone. Virtual kidnapping scammers will do anything they can to keep you on the line so you can’t try to contact your loved one. They’re also seeking information to use against you on the call. The safest bet is just to hang up.
- Try to reach your loved one on their personal phone. Once you hang up, contact your loved one via text, call or even message them on social media to confirm that they are ok.
- If you do engage with the caller, try to slow down the situation. Scammers use scare tactics and frantic tones to force you to comply with their demands. Try asking to speak directly with the family member.
NOTE: Criminals can use artificial intelligence to clone the voices of people close to you. If they put someone on the line who sounds like your loved one, ask questions only they would know the answer to. Some people even establish a family password to ask the person on the other line – if they don’t know the password, it’s not your loved one.
- Do not agree to pay a ransom either by wire or in person, which can be extremely dangerous.
- If you think a real kidnapping is taking place, contact law enforcement. Do not give in to the demands of the alleged kidnappers – contact the authorities for a proper investigation if you believe the threat to be credible.
