Abduction Scam Frightens Herndon Mom: Police

HERNDON, VA — A Herndon woman received a scary phone call from someone claiming her daughter had been kidnapped in Mexico and that she would need to send money to free her, police say.

The woman, who lives in the 2400 block of Thomas Jefferson Drive, received a call at around 10:13 a.m. on Tuesday from someone asking her to wire money to Mexico to secure her daughter's release, according to a report from the Fairfax County Police Department.

"Officers contacted the daughter and confirmed she was fine," the report states. "An investigation determined this was a hoax in attempt to extort money from the victim. No one was injured and no money was given to the suspect."

This is a common scam reported in other areas in Northern Virginia and around the country. Police say that if you receive a similar call, notify the police and contact the family member. Also, never wire money to anyone.

Fairfax County Police posted a statement last month warning of such scams, noting that they had received several reported cases in a period of a few weeks.

Image via FCPD