The National Red Cross has issued a warning of a war-time hoax involving the families of soldiers being contacted and told their military family member has been killed, is missing or has been taken prisoner. Someone identifying themselves as a representative of the Red Cross is calling families of deployed service members to make the claims. As of last week, 10 such calls have been made in a handful of states, including: Delaware, Alabama and Michigan. PJStar.com
The Red Cross does not inform next of kin about a soldier's status. If a death or incident occurs, family members are notified by military officials.
If you or someone you know receives such a hoax call, contact the Red Cross' local military liaison and the special toll-free line set up by the organization to gather information for authorities at (888) 309-9679.
The American Red Cross works with the military and their families to help deliver emergency messages and to provide outreach and social service assistance to soldiers and their families.