ACT Policing appeals for help identifying man in ‘virtual kidnapping’ case
Police have released CCTV of a man they wish to speak to in connection with an alleged “virtual kidnapping” scam.
Police have asked the public for help identifying a man wanted in connection with an alleged “virtual kidnapping” scam that conned an international student.
On Tuesday, ACT Policing revealed an undisclosed sum of money had been paid to scammers who allegedly targeted the Canberra-based student in August 2023.
The force described virtual kidnapping as “a complex scam”, which often involved offenders contacting victims and impersonating a person of authority from their home country.
Police said scammers typically told victims they were linked to a crime, and used information about them to make the ruse appear legitimate.
This information often came from social media.
“Eventually, scammers will convince the victim to leave their residence and demand money from the victim’s family,” ACT Policing said.
The man wanted in connection with the alleged August 2023 scam is described as being of an Asian background.
He was wearing glasses and a black suit and tie at the time he was captured in CCTV footage released by police on Tuesday.
ACT Policing said investigators believed he “may be able to assist” with ongoing inquiries.
Police have urged anyone who can identify the man, or provide any information about the alleged scam, to contact Crime Stoppers.
They can do so by calling 1800 333 000, or visiting the Crime Stoppers ACT website.
“Please quote reference 7542162,” ACT Policing said.
“Information can be provided anonymously.”
