VIRTUAL KIDNAPPING SCAM:
The criminal element are always developing new methods to prey on unsuspecting citizens for the purpose of scamming them of money. The latest to hit northern New Jersey is the virtual kidnapping scheme. This scheme has been around for many years in other parts of the U.S. and world but only recently have several incidents been reported in New Jersey. Although virtual kidnapping takes on many forms, it is always an extortion scheme—one that tricks victims into paying a ransom to free a loved one they believe is being threatened with violence or death. Unlike traditional abductions, virtual kidnappers have not actually kidnapped anyone. Instead, through deceptions and threats, they coerce victims to pay a quick ransom before the scheme falls apart. A typical scenario is for the criminal to first perform an extensive reconnaissance online, learning as much as possible about the victim. The criminal will then contact the victim, most likely by telephone and claim to be holding the victim’s loved one hostage. The criminal will then demand a ransom in exchange for his or her safe return. They attempt to keep victims on the phone as long as possible until the money is wired to the criminal’s account to prevent the victim from trying to contact the hostage directly. Only after the payment is sent do victims learn that they were scammed and that their loved ones were never in any danger.

The Denville Police Department encourages spreading awareness of this and other similar scams. Especially educate members of the senior citizen community who can be particularly targeted in these types of fraud.

If you should receive this type of call, do not give out your information, including bank information to the caller. Do not agree to pay a ransom, by wire or in person. Delivering money in person can be dangerous. In most cases, the best course of action is to hang up the phone. You may make note of the telephone number and any other information that the caller provides to you and contact the police and your loved one to assure they are safe.

Always be mindful of the information that you release on the internet, including and especially on social media. In particular, do not provide your telephone number and home address. Do not advertise when you are leaving your home or going on vacation. Please feel free to contact the Denville Police Department should you have any questions or concerns regarding this matter.