ROME— The Rome Police Department is warning residents to remain vigilant after receiving reports of a scam designed to frighten victims into sending money through threats and intimidation.

According to police, several citizens have reported receiving unsolicited text messages accusing them of “messing with some girl” and demanding payment. Authorities say when recipients refuse to comply, scammers often escalate the situation by sending maps of local addresses, names of family members, and threatening videos in an effort to pressure victims into paying.

Law enforcement officials emphasize that the messages are part of an ongoing scam and are intended to create panic and urgency.

Police say scammers frequently use intimidation tactics, including threatening language, disturbing images or videos, and publicly available personal information to make their claims appear legitimate. Victims are often pressured to send money quickly through payment applications or electronic transfers.

The Rome Police Department is urging anyone who receives similar messages not to respond or send money. Instead, residents are encouraged to block the number, save screenshots of the messages, and report the incident to law enforcement.

Officials stressed that recipients are not in legal trouble but are instead being targeted by criminals hoping fear will lead to quick decisions.

Authorities are reminding the public to stay alert and contact law enforcement if they believe they are being targeted by a scam. Police say scammers rely on fear and urgency to manipulate victims before they have time to think through the situation.