Recognize the pattern
How it starts
Unfamiliar calls, threatening texts or fabricated media.
The promise
Do not hang up or call police; pay now to keep them safe.
What happens next
Fear for a loved one is reinforced with cries, personal details or altered photos; nonexistent debts may also become violent threats.
Signs to watch for
- Forbids contacting family or others
- Demands immediate transfers
- No independently verifiable information
Start with what you can do now
If this happened to you
Call 911 if someone may be in immediate danger.
Try your loved one through a known number or another trusted contact.
Preserve threats and payment details and report the incident to law enforcement.
What to save
Keep the original records. Use copies to organize the details.
- Caller numbers and texts
- Audio or threatening media
- Recipient and payment demands
- Family checks and reporting timeline
Before you send money
- Agree on independent family contact methods
- Limit public live travel and family details
- Check threats separately and contact police
These guides explain common patterns. The facts of your situation and your payment provider’s rules determine which steps are available.