The Vanderburgh County Sheriff's Office is investigating a report of telephone extortion.
A news release from the sheriff’s office says the caller claimed to have kidnapped the victim's daughter and demanded money in exchange for her safe release.
The victim transferred money to the caller via MoneyGram and Western Union. Once the victim realized the kidnapping was a hoax, the victim was only able to cancel one of the wire transfers.
The sheriff’s office says deputies are investigating the method by which the victim was selected as a target.
In the past, criminal groups have been known to use social media to learn about their victims and their families. The fake kidnappers will typically attempt to create a sense of urgency and danger in order to coerce victims into quickly complying with their demands.
Tips for avoiding telephone extortion:
Does the call appear to be from the kidnapped victim’s phone? Is the caller going to great lengths to keep you on the line? Does the caller tell you not to call your loved one?
Authorities suggest keeping your voice calm and request to speak directly to the loved one.
If the caller does not let you speak to the victim, ask the caller to describe the victim’s appearance and from where they were taken.
Also, attempt to call or text the victim and request that he or she call you back from their own phone.