PUBLIC SAFETY ANNOUNCEMENT “VIRTUAL KIDNAPPING SCAM”
VIRTUAL KIDNAPPING SCAM
Citizens across the United States are being targeted for a variety of internet and telephone based scams as part of an ongoing pattern of criminal activity. The most recent scam is known as “virtual kidnapping” and involves the suspect calling a victim and advising them a loved one or acquaintance has been kidnapped and demanding an immediate ransom.
On, Tuesday, November 14, 2017 this happened to a UNCG student and her parents.
WRAL recently highlighted this scam in the news article linked below
The FBI also offers tips on their home page at the link below
Please take appropriate precautions, trust your instincts if they tell you something isn’t right, and don’t fall victim to these scams.
If you suspect a real kidnapping is taking place or you believe a ransom demand is a scheme, contact your nearest FBI office or local law enforcement immediately. Tips to the FBI can also be submitted online at tips.fbi.gov. All tipsters may remain anonymous.
