Virtual Kidnapping Ransom Call
A caller claims to have kidnapped your loved one, with screaming in the background, and demands an immediate ransom — but no one has actually been taken.
Think a message like this reached you? You can check it right now.
What this scam is
You receive a terrifying call claiming a family member has been kidnapped, often with screaming or crying in the background, and a demand to wire or send a ransom immediately while staying on the line so you cannot check on your loved one. No kidnapping has occurred; the 'victim' is safe and unaware. Scammers may use scraped social-media details or AI voice to sound convincing. The goal is to panic you into paying before you verify.
What it usually looks like
- A call claiming your loved one is kidnapped.
- Screaming or crying in the background.
- A demand for immediate ransom by wire/crypto/gift card.
- Insistence you stay on the line and tell no one.
Common warning signs
- Being ordered to stay on the phone and not contact anyone.
- Immediate ransom demands in untraceable forms.
- Refusal to let you speak clearly with the 'victim.'
- Extreme, deliberate panic.
Example wording scammers use
“We have your daughter. Don't hang up or call anyone. Wire $5,000 now or she gets hurt.”
“Stay on the line — send crypto immediately if you want to see them again.”
These are illustrative examples written by ScamSplain, not real messages.
What the scammers want
- An immediate ransom before you verify.
- To keep you on the line and panicked.
- Untraceable payment.
What to do
- Stay calm and, if possible, contact the 'victim' another way (another phone, a family member).
- Ask to speak to them and request proof; ask a question only they'd know.
- Do not wire or send money; contact police.
- Never let the caller stop you from verifying.
What to do if you already responded
- Confirm your loved one is safe and call police (911) and the FBI.
- Contact your bank/providers about any payment sent.
- Report to ic3.gov and reportfraud.ftc.gov.