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Safety Advocate's Video Highlights Kidnapping Danger Of Pokémon Go

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MIAMI (CBSMiami) – A safety advocate produced a video showing how some Pokémon Go players are so engrossed in the game that they're willing to jump into a stranger's car.

His warning is the latest in a long string of concerns about the virtual reality game layered over real places.

South Florida law enforcement agencies took to social media almost immediately after the game launched to post safety tips.

Miami police even put out a video of their own warning about getting too wrapped up in the game that you forget your personal safety.

No playing while driving, checking your surroundings and staying off private property.

But the newest video made by New York safety advocate Joey Salads highlights a new danger.

"Hi! You guys playing Pokémon? Catch anything good over here," Salads says in the video.

Salads then pretends to get a phone call from a friend saying there are some rare Pokémon down the street.

He asks the players for directions before asking if they want to join him in the hunt. They were so engrossed in the game that they agree to jump in his car.

Salads hits them with the reality of their decision.

"Why are you so trusting of people who play the game? People who could abduct you or harm you in anyway," he tells them.

Later in the video he approaches another couple and it's the same story.

"Your parents know you go run off with strangers?" Salads says.

Miami police spokesperson Frederica Burden says parents need to be vigilant.

"It is a game that is totally unsafe and we advise parents to monitor their children."

CBS4's Hank Tester spoke with some players at Kennedy Park. They were well aware of the danger.

"When I come to the park, I usually come with my friends. I never come alone," Angelo Lopez said.

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