New London – City police are warning a phone scam involving fake kidnappings and demands for a ransom has become more common lately.

Police in a social media post said the “virtual kidnapping” scam happens when an unknown person calls to say a loved one has been kidnapped – and then demands money for the person’s release.

The loved one in these cases is not actually in danger, according to police. But they said personal information about the victim is obtained to make the fraudulent story more believable.

Police advised those who receive this type of call not to give out details about themselves or their family members and not to wire any money in response to the ransom demand.

“If you get this type of call, you should contact the New London Police Department,” officials said.

The FBI last year said the virtual kidnapping schemes have been around for at least two decades but have gotten more sophisticated as technology advances.

In Chicago, the FBI said virtual kidnappers were searching social media posts made by international travelers, then contacting the target’s loved ones to say the target had been taken hostage.

“Family members are coerced into paying a ransom quickly to ensure the target’s release,” the federal agency said. “In reality, the target was never in physical danger. By the time the family members realize they have been victimized, the ransom money is gone.”