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Sonora Issues Alert Over 'Honeytrap' Romance Scams as Cases Rise in Mexico

Authorities detail schemes that use fake profiles to gain trust and obtain intimate material for extortion.

Overview

  • Sonora’s Cyber Unit warned of the “Honeytrap” or “Novias Virtuales” scheme and opened report lines at 800-77-24237 and reportes.ciber@sonora.gob.mx.
  • The CDMX Cyber Police recently reported growth of these scams across social networks, dating apps and even online games, with risks that include sextortion and identity theft.
  • Scammers rush to private chats or video calls, coax victims into sharing sensitive content, then demand money or favors under threat of exposure.
  • Officials urge users to verify identities, avoid sending intimate content or money, reject unknown files or apps, enable two-factor authentication and tighten privacy settings.
  • Research cited in coverage describes a “double hit” for victims, with financial losses accompanied by severe emotional harm such as shame and isolation.