Police: Scammers Are Targeting Bergen County Residents With 'Virtual Kidnappings'
MAHWAH, N.J.(CBSNewYork) -- Police in New Jersey are warning residents of an aggressive phone scam.
As WCBS 880's Jim Smith explained, it's called a virtual kidnapping scam.
"They'll call a house and there will be screaming in the background, and they will talk very quickly, they want money, and ransom for their next of kin," Mahwah Police Chief James Batelli explained.
Police said that they have received reports from across Bergen County, with the latest incidents taking place in Westwood, Saddle Brook, and Wyckoff.
Law enforcement believes that the scam started in Mexico and that it's success in duping victims there has fueled its growth.
"Stay calm, rational, and slow the conversation down. Usually when you start doing that and asking questions, specific questions, they will hang up the phone," Chief Batelli said.
Officials added that residents should be careful about what they post on social media as the scammers will use those tidbits to fool potential victims.
You May Also Be Interested In These Stories