A lawyer in Indiana is urging parents to remain vigilant against a brazen cybercrime involving a fake kidnapping scheme. The Indiana Attorney General’s Office has issued a warning about this escalating scam across the state and the United States. Attorney General Todd Rokita emphasizes the need for extra caution among parents whose children are traveling abroad or attending school overseas.
According to Rokita, scammers may target unsuspecting parents by obtaining photos of their children in secluded areas or from social media, or by pretending to have kidnapped them. Once the crook sends a photo to the parent, they will then demand a ransom in exchange for the child’s safety. Rokita warns that the scammer will often insist on immediate payment.
Rokita advises parents to stay calm and avoid arguing with the perpetrator. He recommends trying to call the alleged victim from another phone or contacting them through social media while on the line with the kidnapper. Buying time by asking to speak to the child directly, repeating the suspect’s demands, stating that the demands are being noted down, or requesting time to meet the demands are additional tips suggested by Rokita.
Notifying the local police department is another step Rokita encourages potential victims to take. He also warns parents to be cautious of incoming calls from outside area codes. Slowing down the situation by remaining calm and asking the caller for reassurances about the well-being of their loved one is advised. If the alleged kidnapper refuses to let the parent speak to the victim, asking for descriptions of the loved one or their car can be a useful tactic.
By following these tips, parents can be better prepared to protect their children from falling victim to this disturbing scam. It is crucial to stay alert and informed, as cybercriminals continue to devise new and sophisticated methods to carry out their illegal activities.