In this episode, we shine a light on the sinister phenomenon of virtual kidnapping. From deceptive phone calls to the psychological manipulation tactics, join us as we delve into the dark world where fears are exploited for profit, leaving victims shaken and families torn apart. 

Today’s guest is Titania Jordan. Titania is a nationally renowned tech, social media, and family expert who has appeared on programs such as the Today Show, Good Morning America, Fox News, CNN, and more. She is the author and founder of Parenting in a Tech World and serves as Chief Parent Officer of the online safety company Bark Technologies.

Show Notes:

• [1:06] - Titania Jordan shares her background and what she does at Bark Technologies.

• [3:04] - Virtual and cyber kidnapping are the same thing. Anything that involves kidnapping without actually moving a person’s physical location against their will.

• [4:26] - Titania explains a recent event in which an exchange student was targeted.

• [6:18] - Children and adults alike are targeted everyday, but Titania explains that older teenage boys are heavily targeted and impacted.

• [9:20] - Another type of scam is actually targeting the family and loved ones of someone to require a ransom for a kidnapping that hasn’t happened.

• [11:17] - Built-in location services are very helpful. Parental controls and alerts are also something important to have in place.

• [13:53] - Be careful answering the phone from a number you don’t know.

• [16:20] - Contact law enforcement immediately if this is something that happens to you.

• [19:51] - It is never a bad idea to be prepared.

• [22:17] - These events are opportunities to have really important conversations with your children.

• [24:41] - Flip the script and ask your children to help you do a safety audit.

• [27:52] - If it feels off, it probably is. Don’t hesitate to report it and talk about it.

• [30:26] - Bark Technologies offers a lot of programs and even a family smartphone that can help keep kids safe.

Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave a nice review. 

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