New York State Police officials say they are investigating several complaints of a telephone scam in which the caller threatens to harm a loved one unless they receive money.

The scammers call potential victims and tell them a loved one has been involved in a car accident. The caller then says the person involved in the accident will be arrested unless money is sent to a location outside of the United States.

Troopers say anyone receiving such a suspicious call should ask questions a scammer would not be able to answer, such as the loved one’s birthday. They also advise calling the family of the person who is allegedly seeking assistance to check if the request is legitimate.

Victims are being asked to call the police.

(AP)