GOSHEN, Ind. -- The Goshen Police Department took to social media Monday to put a warning out to the community about a new, particularly heartless scam that is gaining traction locally and around the country.

"Scammers are contacting people at random, including those who have posted about a missing loved one on social media, and claiming to have that person hostage," the GPD said. "They use threats and fear to demand ransom money, often making the situation feel terrifying and urgent."

Authorities say these scammers use emotional manipulation to get victims to act quickly and irrationally.

Tips from GPD on how protect yourself and loved ones:

• If someone claims to have your loved one:
  -- Stay calm and try to contact your loved one directly
  -- Don’t call out their name - it could give the scammer more information
  -- Ask questions only your loved one would know
  -- Request proof: Ask to speak with them or hear their voice
  -- Do not agree to pay a ransom
  -- Hang up and call your local police department or the FBI immediately.
• If you're searching for a missing person:
  -- Limit the details you share publicly on social media
  -- Avoid posting clothing descriptions or personal phone numbers
  -- List your local police department's contact info instead of your own
• Warning signs:
  -- The caller insists you stay on the phone and won’t let you contact the “victim."
  -- The call doesn’t come from the alleged victim’s number
  -- Ransom demands involve wire transfers to Mexico and may drop quickly if you resist.

"Stay alert. Stay calm. Stay safe. If you ever receive a call like this, contact your local police department or your nearest FBI office immediately," the GPD said.

You can submit tips on scams or scammers online.