A scam tries to compel scared parents to call a bogus number.
The Elizabethtown Police Department said the scam “is a cruel play on a parent’s worst fears to attempt contact for a scam.”
The scam is a text message (see photos) where the scammer pretends to be a child of the target and gives a phone number to call.
“Note that the scammer directed the intended victim to call a different number than the one being used to text. This probably indicates a central scam call center operation of some kind,” according to Elizabethtown police.
Another text message scam is one that claims a relative has been kidnapped.
“When getting an alarming message like this, it’s best to pause and think. Attempt to make contact with family members first,” Elizabethtown police said. “If that fails, contact friends or other family members who may be with them. If you still can’t and know their location, contact local law enforcement to find out if there is a collision involving your family member.”
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
