A kidnapping financial scam is targeting the parents of students at Boston Public Schools, according to police who are warning community members about the con.
The Boston Police Department has received three reports of BPS parents recently getting calls from a scammer, who says that their child was in danger or kidnapped. The scammers had information about the parent’s child, including their name, and demanded the parent send money through Western Union.
“This type of scam is called a kidnapping scam and is meant to trick a parent or grandparent into thinking that their child is in danger so that they will pay a ransom,” Boston Police said in a statement.
“In some cases, the scammers can have very detailed information and use that to convince a parent/grandparent that the scam is real,” police added in the community warning.
The Boston Police Department has issued tips for parents to avoid falling victim to the scam:
— Be careful posting information publicly on social media, and talk with your children about protecting their privacy online. Scammers often look through social media for any information that would give them the ability to persuade you.
— Report any scams immediately to police if you receive a similar call.
— If you receive a scam call, immediately hang up the phone and do not reply to any suspicious emails, calls or texts.
— Do not reply to any urgent messages demanding money, especially if the person is demanding money through Western Union, gift cards or cryptocurrency.
