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Meaning of Cyber Kidnapping and how the online scam works�
A Chinese foreign exchange student, who became a victim of Cyber Kidnapping, has been found just days after being reported missing. The online scam he fell prey to could target anyone, so it is of utmost importance to understand its meaning and how it works so that you can safeguard yourself.
Meaning of Cyber Kidnapping and how it works
Cyber Kidnapping, also known as virtual kidnapping, is an extortion scheme where the victim is never held hostage and no harm is caused to them.
The online scam typically uses empty threats to coerce victims to do as they say, which is later used against their families to create fear. They expect a quick ransom from the victims or their families before the scheme falls apart.
The virtual kidnappers do not physically hurt the victim, they threaten them to adhere to their demands, such as telling them to isolate themselves while they are being monitored through video calls and other methods. This is to make their family believe they have been kidnapped.
The victim is then asked to share pictures that make them look as if they are in danger when in reality they are safe. The scammers then use those images to deceive the family members and demand a ransom.
They use similar techniques to coerce victims into doing things against their will by pretending that their family members are in danger. Victims have reportedly revealed that they’ve heard screams in the background, thus forcing them to believe that the scammers’ threats against their families are real.
Police provide tips to protect yourself
In the wake of the latest incident, law enforcement authorities have urged the public to educate themselves about the crime that’s rampant as anyone can fall prey to it.
The first and foremost thing to keep in mind is to not indulge in virtual conversations with strangers. The best course of action, according to the FBI, is to hang up and not share any details about you or your family.
Try to slow the situation down. Request to speak to your family member directly and ask, How do I know my loved one is okay?’ the FBI told ABC.
If you remotely suspect you are a victim of any sort of cybercrime or if you feel an actual kidnapping is taking place, the right thing to do is to call 911 immediately.
