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US Embassy Issues Alert Over Dating App Kidnappings in Mexico

The alert offers targeted safety recommendations for U.S. travelers to these beach destinations following recent kidnappings.

Overview

  • U.S. Embassy and consulates have confirmed that American tourists were kidnapped by contacts made on dating apps in Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Nayarit.
  • Some families have been extorted for large ransom demands to secure their loved ones’ release, prompting a June 2 security alert from the U.S. Consulate in Guadalajara.
  • The State Department’s travel advisories list Jalisco under Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” and Nayarit under Level 2 “Exercise Increased Caution.”
  • Officials recommended meeting app contacts only in public places, avoiding isolated locations, sharing trip details with trusted contacts and calling 911 if in danger.
  • In late May, the FBI and Mexican authorities raided a hotel in Nayarit, rescuing a beaten U.S. tourist and arresting two suspects.