Caldwell Police Department in Caldwell, Idaho, has issued a warning about virtual kidnapping scams. In these schemes, scammers use phone calls, texts, emails, or social media to claim that a person or family member has been kidnapped. The scammers then demand ransom payments for the safe release of the alleged victim, even though no actual kidnapping has occurred.

The scammers operate in organized groups and make use of caller ID and AI voice spoofing to deceive victims. They may also exploit families who have posted social media alerts about missing persons. The tactics used include isolating individuals believed to be kidnapped and pressuring family members to pay a quick ransom.

Authorities advise that if you receive such a call or message, always try to contact your loved one directly before making any payment. It is important to question the kidnapper’s claims, avoid providing personal details, and ask for a code word or other verification that only your loved one would know. These measures can help delay the scam and give time to verify the situation.

Anyone who suspects a real kidnapping or believes the demand is part of a scam should contact their local Police Department or call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). For additional information, representatives from the U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI Office of Private Sector have provided guidance online.

Source: Caldwell Police Department | Caldwell ID

Source Type: Police

Source Location:

Caldwell

Treasure Valley Family YMCA Offers Free 3-Day Trials

Treasure Valley Family YMCA is offering a three-day free trial for Ada or Canyon County residents. People can apply online by filling out a form.

Community Center drops watchlist signup opportunity

The Community Center says the opportunity to have a name added to a watchlist has dropped, with a “rad” button available during open hours or at Pride events—Hillcrest Library Pride Resource Fair on June 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Canyon County Pride, where buttons will be pressed on demand—while materials describe the center as radically pro-transgender.

Caldwell Girl’s Soccer Suffers First Loss of Season

Caldwell High girl's soccer loses first game; junior and sophomore score.

Caldwell Launches Ballet, Jazz Classes for Kids

Caldwell launches ballet and jazz classes for ages 3-11 starting September 9.

Caldwell Library Offers Free Tablet Raffle Event

Caldwell Library event offers free food, tablet raffle, and library card registration.

Friday Night Football: Columbia, Nampa Face Off

Friday night football: Columbia hosts Caldwell; Nampa visits Kuna.

Nampa Library Hosts Children's Garden Literature Class

Nampa Library hosts a gardening class where kids make plant-inspired bookmarks.

Caldwell Parks Offers Kids Beginner Photography Classes

Caldwell offers beginner photography classes for youths at $35.

Caldwell Library Hosts Adult Lego Club Event

Caldwell Public Library hosts an adult Lego club on Sept. 12, 2025.