Virtual kidnapping scam calls
Scammers use AI-cloned voices that sound like a child to fake a kidnapping and pressure parents or grandparents into paying, even though the child is safe.
Should I worry?
The call is built to panic you: a claim that your child was in a crash and then taken, violent threats, a demand for money right now, and what sounds like your child's voice. Police who received several of these reports found every child safe and no money paid. The voice can be cloned from a short clip posted online, and scammers often add personal details gathered from social media. If a call like this comes in, don't trust the voice. Hang up, then reach your child or someone who is with them using a number you already know. Don't pay or stay on the line while you check. Consider agreeing on a family code word now, and talk with grandparents too, since they are targeted as well.
How to join in
Your teen may already know that AI can fake voices, and may find it fascinating or a bit creepy. That makes this an easy, low-drama chat: ask what they've heard about voice cloning, and explain that a short clip of anyone's voice can be enough to copy it. Then make a plan together, such as a family code word and a rule that you'll always hang up and call them back directly, so a fake call has nothing to grab onto.
Try saying
“I read that scammers can copy a person's voice with AI and call parents pretending a kid has been taken. If I ever get a call like that, I'll hang up and call you straight away, so don't be surprised. Can we pick a family code word, and tell me who I should call if you don't pick up?”
If you’re worried
If you believe a child is in real danger, call 911. If you've received a call like this, report it to your local police and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (1-888-495-8501). If you already sent money, contact your bank or payment provider right away. If your child is upset or scared after hearing about this, Kids Help Phone is available at 1-800-668-6868 or by texting 686868.
Sources
From Mistlift, mistlift.app. Plain talk about what kids are into online.