SCAM ALERT
Scammers will call your phone, when you answer you will hear a female crying hysterically. A male subject will get on the phone and tell you that your loved one was "in the wrong place at the wrong time."
They will demand a ransom, and for you to get a money order and/or gift card for the safe return of your loved one.
They will tell you NOT TO CALL THE POLICE or else.
Tips to prevent this from happening to you:
- Develop a "Family safe word" for verification in emergency situations. DO NOT tell others your family's safe word.
- DO NOT send money to ANYONE you do not know.
- Only answer calls from numbers that you know.
- Three-way call or text your loved one while on the phone with the scammer to see if they are safe.
Please contact us at 815-544-2135 if there are any concerns about the legitimacy of any scam you may encounter.
