In a disturbing revelation, U.S. federal officials have confirmed that dating apps have become a tool for kidnappers targeting American citizens in Mexico.
See the tweet below!
Individuals lured by the promise of romance have found themselves in perilous situations.
The areas of Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Nayarit have become hotspots for such crimes.
Several reports have emerged of U.S. citizens being kidnapped after meeting individuals through dating apps.
These incidents have been concentrated in Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Nayarit, with captives and their families often extorted for hefty sums to secure their release, reports NBC Los Angeles.
The U.S. Embassy has issued a stern warning: “Travelers should use caution when meeting strangers; meet only in public places and avoid isolated locations, such as residences or hotel rooms, where crimes are most likely to occur.”
This cautionary stance highlights the seriousness of the threat posed to unsuspecting travelers.
The modus operandi involves conning victims into compromising situations, often in private spaces like hotel rooms or residences.
Such settings have been identified as prime locations for these despicable acts.
The alarming trend has led to increased warnings for travelers venturing into these regions.
The U.S. Consulate General in Guadalajara reported that kidnappings through dating apps are not limited to Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Nayarit but are indicative of a broader threat facing Americans traveling or residing in Mexico.
They advised always meeting in public areas and informing family or friends of meeting plans to ensure personal safety.
Notably, areas like Jalisco are marked as Level 3 travel advisories, urging travelers to reconsider their travel plans due to security concerns.
Nayarit, labeled as a Level 2 area, suggests exercising increased caution.
These risk levels reflect the escalating concern for American citizens traveling to these destinations.
Disturbingly, specific dating apps involved in the kidnappings have not been disclosed, leaving travelers with a generalized anxiety regarding online interactions.
This uncertainty emphasizes the need for heightened vigilance and adherence to safety protocols when traveling.
This alarming trend of kidnappings linked to dating apps necessitates immediate and robust protective measures for U.S. citizens.
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco and Nuevo Nayarit, Nayarit, Mexico: Reports of U.S. citizens kidnapped by people met on dating apps. Travelers should use caution; meet in public places and avoid isolated spots. More at https://t.co/unKV8NZu9o pic.twitter.com/0qS2utyHgu
— Travel – State Dept (@TravelGov) June 2, 2025
