US Issues Travel Warning: Dating App Kidnappings Target Americans in Mexico

US Issues Travel Warning: A warning has been issued for citizens of the United States in relation to dating apps about the risks of meeting people on dating apps following several kidnapping incidents in Mexico. On Monday, the US Embassy in Mexico confirmed the reports of American citizens who had been kidnapped by kidnappers they met on dating apps in previous months. The kidnappings that occurred in the Puerto Vallarta and the Nuevo Nayarit areas were supported by the US Consulate General Guadalajara, who issued a news release, - ABC News is reporting.

The US Consulate General Guadalajara stated it has confirmed reports of US citizens "kidnapped by individuals the victims met on dating apps in recent months in the Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Nayarit areas," also referencing or indicating that the violence was not limited to a specific area.

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"Victims and their family members in the United States have at times been extorted for large sums of money to secure their release," the security alert said.

Travelers were encouraged to take precautions in meeting strangers, to meet only in public places, and to not meet in isolated areas (residences/hotel rooms) where officials said crimes most likely would develop.

The US Consulate General also reminded US citizens that in the State Department's travel advisory for Mexico, Jalisco is rated "Level 3: Reconsider Travel" due to crime and kidnapping, while Nayarit is rated "Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution" due to crime.

Be careful when utilizing online dating apps in Mexico.

Be sure to tell a trusted friend or family member of your plans... this should include where you are going, who you are meeting, and which app you used.

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Follow your gut. If you feel uncomfortable, leave.

In case of an emergency call 911.

According to Pew Research Center, three in ten Americans have used a dating app. Dating apps are now one of the most common ways to meet partner. This increased usage has led to an increase in scams and associated crimes.

The US Consulate has issued a warning to individuals that travel to certain areas of Mexico to meet with someone from one of the dating apps, advising to pay extreme caution and look at the travel advisories for that region as well. "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," the alert added.

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