Hey there, Internet user! Let’s talk about a scam so dramatic it might as well have its own Netflix series: virtual kidnapping. Picture this: You’re chilling at home, sipping your favorite beverage, when suddenly your phone buzzes with a message claiming your loved one has been kidnapped. Cue the dramatic music! But hold on to your popcorn, because this is just a scam.

The Plot Twist

These criminal masterminds will text you with wild tales of abductions, demanding a ransom for your loved one’s release. They might even sprinkle in threats of violence to spice things up. To make their ruse more convincing, they could send you a photo or video of your “captive” loved one. But, like a low-budget action movie, their special effects often fall flat. Look closely, and you might notice missing tattoos, scars, or body proportions that don’t quite match up. Nice try, scammers!

How to Avoid Becoming the Star of Their Show

  1. Be a Detective: When posting about a missing person online, remember that scammers might use this info against you. Stay cautious and double-check any suspicious messages.

  2. Travel Smart: While globetrotting, keep your personal info on the down-low. You never know when a scammer might be lurking in the shadows.

  3. Secret Code: Establish a secret code word with your loved ones. It’s like your own personal spy network and can be a life-saver in sketchy situations.

  4. Check the Script: Scammers love to create a false sense of urgency. Take a step back and ask yourself, “Does this plot even make sense?” Nine times out of ten, it doesn’t.

  5. Capture the Moment: If you receive any “proof of life” photos, grab a screenshot or video recording. You’ll want this evidence when you go all Sherlock Holmes on the scam.

  6. Phone a Friend: Before you do anything rash (like paying a ransom), try contacting your loved one directly. Chances are, they’re perfectly fine and binging their favorite series at home.

Report the Scam

If you find yourself caught in this scammy web, report the incident to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov. Provide them with all the juicy details—phone numbers, payment info, and those laughable “proof of life” photos.

Stay safe out there, internet adventurer! For more on this topic, check out the original article here: [Original Article URL]

Original article: https://www.ic3.gov/PSA/2025/PSA251205