STAMFORD, CT — The Federal Bureau of Investigation is warning residents about a disturbing scam involving criminals who alter photos found on social media to create fake “proof of life” images in virtual kidnapping schemes.
The Stamford Police Department issued the alert after the FBI reported an increase in cases where scammers contact family members posing as kidnappers.
The criminals send altered photos or videos that appear authentic, followed by urgent demands for ransom payments.
In these schemes, scammers find publicly available images online and digitally manipulate them to make it appear someone has been kidnapped.
The FBI recommends residents limit what they share publicly on social media platforms.
Authorities advise anyone who receives such a call to verify the safety of their loved one directly whenever possible.
Officials warn against sending money or providing personal information under pressure from callers.
Anyone who receives a suspicious call should contact local law enforcement immediately.
The FBI has published a full public service announcement on its Internet Crime Complaint Center website at ic3.gov.
