The US State Department has recently issued an important advisory for travelers.
With the summer season just around the corner, many Americans are getting ready to embark on their first vacations of the year.
Popular travel destinations for US citizens typically include the UK, Canada, France, and Italy. However, there’s a specific destination that has prompted a warning—Mexico. In 2023, nearly 37 million Americans traveled to Mexico.
The State Department is not suggesting that travelers cancel their plans to visit Mexico, but it is advising them to exercise caution when using dating apps in the country.
The advisory particularly highlights areas such as Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Nuevo Nayarit, and Nayarit.
On June 2, a security alert stated: “U.S. Consulate General Guadalajara has confirmed several reports of U.S. citizens being kidnapped by individuals the victims met on dating apps in recent months in the Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Nayarit areas. Victims and their family members in the United States have at times been extorted for large sums of money to secure their release.
“Please be aware that this type of violence is not limited to one geographic area. 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 further explains: “The U.S. Consulate General reminds U.S. citizens that in the State Department’s travel advisory for Mexico, Jalisco is classified as ‘Level 3: Reconsider Travel’ due to crime and kidnapping, and Nayarit is classified as ‘Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution’ due to crime.”
The advisory suggests that individuals should exercise caution when using dating apps in Mexico, only meet in public venues, and inform a friend or family member about their meeting plans, including the location and time.
The US Embassy advises individuals to dial 911 if they encounter any immediate security threats.
“U.S. citizens in need of emergency consular services should contact their nearest U.S. embassy or consulate,” the advisory added.
This notice coincides with a recent decision by the Trump administration, which bans entry into the US from 12 countries.
The countries listed in this new order are Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.