Romance fraud is becoming an increasing problem in the Americas, especially on several Caribbean islands and in Colombia, where victims – mainly men – fall in love with attractive young women who drug and rob them.
A recent spike in police reports shows that this popular scam has now reached Argentina.
On August 22 the US Embassy in Buenos Aires has one Travel warning Americans visiting the nation’s capital are warning of women drugging tourists to steal their money and other belongings.
While an incident like this can happen to random women meeting travelers at bars and nightclubs, reports indicate that most of these scammers operate through dating apps such as Tinder and other social media platforms.
There they use ‘social engineering’, a so-called technique used by cyber criminals to manipulate individuals into disclosing sensitive financial information or taking actions that could compromise their security.
“Buenos Aires has seen an increase in reports of robberies involving drugs that temporarily incapacitate victims.” says the US embassy. Tourists “have been targeted in bars, nightclubs and through dating applications.
As previously mentioned, Argentina is not the only South American country facing this problem. Last year, a series of “suspicious deaths” in Medellín, Colombia, recorded between November 1 and December 31, prompted the US Embassy to issue a similar travel alert.
Similarly, Caribbean islands such as Jamaica present a “sophisticated romance fraud”, where scammers pose as reputable business owners or professionals to trick victims into sending money or getting involved in fake crypto and other fraudulent financial schemes.
Safety recommendations
The embassy’s key recommendations include not leaving food and drinks unattended in bars or restaurants, or accepting drinks from friendly women you’ve just met.
Most crimes occur when Americans invite random women from dating apps or bars to their accommodations. According to local media, they often use clonazepam to influence victims’ ability to make clear decisions.
Another important recommendation to protect yourself is Unpleasant inform a friend or family member of your whereabouts and dating plans. Include as many details as possible about the woman and the places you will visit.
Please keep that in mind Most victims have their phones and other electronic devices stolen, resulting in the loss of crucial evidence about the identity of the perpetrator or the intentions of the crime.
Last but not least: always meet in public places, and don’t be ashamed of walking away from unusual or uncomfortable situations. Also seek medical attention if you suspect you have been drugged. To do this, call 911.
These types of scams often result in serious financial losses and physical and emotional suffering. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to remain vigilant when traveling abroad.
