Virtual Kidnapping Scam Bilks Verona Woman Of $1,700: Police

Verona, NJ – A Verona woman was the target of a “virtual kidnapping scam” last week that bilked her for more than $1,700, police stated.

According to the Cedar Grove Police Department, the incident took place on Dec. 29, when the woman received a telephone call from a man claiming the victim’s husband had been kidnapped.

The caller allegedly demanded that the woman pay $1,700 via MoneyGram for her husband’s release. At the caller’s demand, the woman sent the money to an individual in Puerto Rico, police said.

Authorities stated that the woman then went to her Pompton Avenue bank to request assistance, whereupon police were contacted.

According to the Cedar Grove Police Department, a responding officer was able to speak to the victim’s husband by telephone, and determined he was at his place of employment in New York City and the kidnapping claim had been a fraud.

The victim then attempted to cancel the MoneyGram, but was informed the money had already been picked up in Puerto Rico, police stated.

An investigation is ongoing, police said.