(KTTS News) – The Howell County Sheriff’s Office is warning of a new scam call.
The Howell County Sheriff’s Office has received numerous calls from citizens advising they have received a call from an unknown source stating a family member has been kidnapped.
Several citizens have reported receiving calls from an individual who demands payment in the form of gift cards in exchange for the safe return of a family member. The caller seems to be using a local phone number to make these demands.
Scammers often use fake phone numbers that do not match the actual number they are calling from to target unsuspecting individuals.
These numbers can be easily created and should not be trusted.
Howell County Sheriff’s Office says if you receive a call of this nature, please contact their office at (417) 256-2544, as well as contact the family member in question to confirm their safety.