Crawford County Sheriff's Office Warns Residents of Family Emergency Phone Scam

Crawford Co., Mo. (KFMO) - The Crawford County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about an ongoing telephone scam that is targeting local citizens through frightening and emotionally charged phone calls.

According to the sheriff's office, several individuals have reported receiving calls from a person claiming to have kidnapped or detained a daughter, granddaughter, or another family member. The caller then demands money in exchange for the loved one's safe return.

Authorities say the scammer often relies on threats, urgency, and emotional manipulation to pressure victims into sending money before they have a chance to verify the information. In many cases, the caller uses a spoofed local telephone number, making the call appear as though it is coming from a nearby resident or business.

Law enforcement officials stress that residents should not assume a caller is local simply because the phone number appears familiar.

The sheriff's office recommends the following steps if you receive one of these calls:

Do not provide any personal information.
Do not send money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or electronic payments.
Hang up immediately.
Contact the family member directly using a phone number you know is legitimate.
Block the suspicious phone number.

Officials say these scams are specifically designed to create panic and prevent victims from taking the time to verify the caller's claims. Pausing to confirm the information can help prevent financial loss and protect residents from becoming victims.

Anyone who has received one of these calls or who may have information related to the scam is encouraged to contact the Crawford County Sheriff's Office at 573-775-2125.

The sheriff's office is also asking residents to share the warning with friends, family members, and neighbors to help raise awareness and prevent additional victims.