Virtual Kidnapping Scams Are Surging

Mexico — Authorities are intensifying protective actions against various online crimes due to growing digital violence. Among the most frequent cases are extortion campaigns using false threats, where criminals simulate virtual kidnappings to demand money from their victims. In these scams, fraudsters typically request high sums initially but also accept smaller payments with the aim of obtaining quick responses and continuing to apply pressure.

Furthermore, fraud on social media, known as "montadeudas," is on the rise. Criminals offer loans with seemingly minimal requirements, but upon gaining access to a user's contacts, they use that information to blackmail and threaten to disseminate private data or intimate images. These criminals also manipulate amounts and deny completed payments to generate greater threats.

Other methods in circulation include grooming, where adults pretend to be teenagers to obtain private images from minors, and sextortion, where the exchange of sexual photographs ends in blackmail. Threats attributed to organized crime groups are also being reported; these groups use fake profiles or illegally obtained information on social media to intimidate and demand payments.

The Cyber Police maintain constant monitoring in the digital sphere and receive direct reports from victims. Authorities recommend immediately reporting suspicious calls, avoiding making money deposits, not sharing intimate content, and using parental controls on minors' devices. Additionally, before requesting online loans, it is important to verify the reputation of financial institutions.

Those affected can go to the Comandancia Norte or make contact by telephone to receive advice. This joint effort seeks to reduce citizen vulnerability to digital threats and promote effective preventive measures.