Virtual kidnapping is a type of scam where criminals contact victims, falsely claiming to have abducted a loved one. The scammers often use urgent, threatening language and may provide details gleaned from social media to make their story convincing. They then demand a ransom for the supposed victim's release, pressuring the target to pay quickly before verifying the claim. In reality, no actual kidnapping has taken place; the scam relies on fear and manipulation to extort money.