Americans are being warned of increased kidnapping risks in Mexico linked to dating apps, with the U.S. Embassy urging travelers to exercise caution and meet strangers in public areas to avoid potential threats.
With summer travel approaching, officials are issuing a security alert to Americans who are using dating apps in certain areas of Mexico, warning travelers to use caution due to a rise in kidnappings linked to the apps. On Monday, the U.S. Embassy and consulates in Mexico shared a security alert after confirming ‘several reports of U.S. citizens being kidnapped by individuals the victims met on dating apps in recent months.’
Bobby McDonald, a retired supervisory Secret Service agent and lecturer in criminal justice at the University of New Haven, shared with Fox News Digital about dating app dangers. He emphasized the need for caution, stating, ‘You’ve got to be careful, buyer beware. You’ve got to assume that something bad could happen to you in this process.’
McDonald urged travelers to be on extra-high alert, recommending meetings in public areas, ensuring cell phone service, and practicing situational awareness. ‘If you choose to use it, be on extra-high alert. Be extra careful of where you’re meeting this person or persons. Make sure that it’s in a public area. Make sure that it’s an area where you’re going to have cell phone service. Make sure that you’re just watching out for yourself, situational awareness. Be careful and let people know where you are,’ he advised.
The alert was issued for Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Nayarit areas. The embassy warned that victims and their families in the U.S. have been extorted for large sums to secure release. Officials emphasized that this type of violence is not limited to one geographic area, urging travelers to avoid isolated locations like residences or hotel rooms where crimes are more likely to occur.
McDonald noted that dating apps are the latest method criminals use for nefarious activities, advising travelers to research their destinations, know the surrounding areas, and have essential documents like passports and embassy contact information readily available. He also stressed the importance of communicating with loved ones and being prepared for emergencies, especially where Wi-Fi access may be limited after an abduction.
The State Department’s travel advisory for Mexico classifies Jalisco as ‘Level 3’ and Nayarit as ‘Level 2,’ both indicating higher threat levels. The department reviews advisories regularly and updates alerts when conditions change. Officials emphasized their commitment to providing accurate information to ensure traveler safety and informed decision-making. McDonald recommended that travelers consider postponing trips to areas with higher advisory levels, highlighting the importance of situational awareness and thorough preparation for a safe and enjoyable vacation.