Attorney General Andy Beshear issued a scam alert after a “virtual kidnapping” scam was recently reported in Central Kentucky. Scammers call saying they have kidnapped a family member and will harm them unless a ransom is paid. Anyone receiving this type of call should contact local law enforcement and follow these steps offered by the FBI:

-Slow down caller by repeating and writing down their request and say you need time to respond.

-Ask to speak to the victim or have them describe the victim and answer a specific question about them

-While on the phone with the alleged kidnapper, attempt to secretly call the supposed victim from another phone

-Try to remain calm and do not disagree or argue with caller.

Beshear also warns the scammers may use personal information about the supposed victim from information shared on the Internet and social media to appear credible. Anyone receiving this type of call should report it to the Office of the Attorney General Consumer Protection hotline at 888-432-9257.