"FBI Alerts on Rising Cyber Kidnapping Scams and Self-Kidnapping Incidents"

The FBI is warning the public about an increase in online scams, including a case of "cyber kidnapping" involving a 17-year-old student in Utah. The student was manipulated into isolating himself and a ransom was demanded from his family. The FBI and law enforcement advise that if contacted by potential cyber kidnappers, individuals should not pay any money, cease communication, and immediately contact authorities. Americans lost over $10 billion to online scams in 2022, and the FBI urges vigilance against these fraudulent activities.