Criminal actors are now using altered images found on social media and other publicly available information to create convincing scenarios. These elaborate fabrications are specifically designed to pressure victims into paying a ransom immediately, often before the victims have a chance to confirm the safety of their loved ones. The FBI explained that these criminals typically initiate contact through text messages, falsely claiming they have kidnapped a family member and demanding money for their release.
These scammers frequently employ tactics meant to create an intense sense of urgency and fear. They often include significant threats of violence against the purported loved one if the ransom is not paid immediately. The criminals will then send what appears to be a genuine photograph or video of the victim’s family member. However, the FBI noted that upon close inspection, these images often contain inaccuracies when compared to confirmed, known photos of the loved one, suggesting they have been manipulated or digitally altered.
The law enforcement agency has advised the public to exercise extreme caution, especially when a false sense of urgency is being created, and to carefully evaluate the veracity of the kidnappers’ claims. To help protect themselves and their families from these scams, the FBI recommends a number of protective measures. These include establishing a secret code word or phrase known only to family members, which can be used to quickly verify the authenticity of any communication during a crisis or emergency situation. People should also avoid sharing personal or sensitive information with strangers while traveling.
Furthermore, the FBI recommends heightened vigilance when sharing information about missing persons online, as scammers may use these posts to reach out with false information. The agency also suggested taking screenshots or recording proof-of-life photos whenever they are sent. This is crucial for later analysis during an investigation, especially since criminals sometimes use timed message features to deliberately limit the time victims have to scrutinize the fake images for inconsistencies. Although the FBI did not provide specific data on the current prevalence of this fraud, similar reported instances confirm that criminals are capable of spoofing a loved one’s phone number to make the initial contact even more convincing.
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