A kidnapping scam is going on to extort money from victims by convincing them a loved one has been kidnapped and they must pay a ransom to secure their safety.

That’s the word from McClain County Sheriff Landy Offolter.

He said the scam typically begins with a phone call saying your family member is being held captive.

The caller may allege your daughter or son has been kidnapped or involved in some scandal and you hear a male/female screaming in the background.

Another variant of the fraud has a family member being held because he or she caused an accident, is injured and won’t be allowed to go to the hospital until damages are paid.

Callers will typically provide the victim with specific instructions to ensure a safe return of the family member.

The sheriff said please report this to law enforcement immediately.

The sheriff’s department had that very thing happen Wednesday afternoon around 3 p.m.

Undersheriff James Goins reported their office was able to catch the victim right before he sent the money.

Please be wary of such scams.