(FOX40.COM) — The Woodland Police Department has reported an ongoing kidnapping ransom scam.
Video Above: Scam warning for small businesses
Police said that scammers are calling residents, claiming that a loved one has been kidnapped or injured, to demand immediate payment. Screaming voices have been heard in the background of these calls to make the situation sound real.
In the call, the scammer demands immediate payment, usually through wire transfer and insists you stay on the phone until the money is sent. WPD said it has taken at least four “kidnapping ransom” scam reports so far.
Warning signs of a possible scam call:
- Calls come from unfamiliar or out-of-state numbers.
- You cannot verify the location of your loved one or reach them by phone.
- The caller refuses to let you hang up or contact anyone else.
- Payment is demanded through wire transfer or similar methods.
The police department advised residents to review their social media privacy settings and limit the personal information they share online to prevent outside people from using it to make their scam calls more convincing.
WPD said that if you receive a call like this:
- Stay calm and try to slow things down.
- Ask to speak directly to your loved one or have them describe the victim or vehicle.
- Try calling or texting your loved one from another phone or contacting them on social media.
- Don’t send money or provide personal information.
Emma Kidger
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