Digital Impersonation Scams Hit Travel Agencies in Quintana Roo

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Travel agencies in Quintana Roo are struggling through the summer season with weak sales and a rising number of identity-theft scams, according to the president of a regional tourism industry group.

Leonor Alarcón Méndez, president of the National Council of Women Uniting Destinations (Consejo Nacional de Mujeres Uniendo Destinos), said at least 10 cases of impersonation are reported each month in Cancún. Fraudsters based abroad steal the names and branding of legitimate local agencies and sell fake vacation packages, she said.

“At least 10 cases a month are being recorded in Cancún of identity theft of travel agencies, which are located in other countries but sell packages in Quintana Roo,” Alarcón said. “The perpetrators not only replicate the names and images of established agencies, but also clone reservation platforms to offer fraudulent excursions.”

The sector opened the summer with moderate expectations but has not met its tour-sales targets, she said. Low numbers of domestic and international visitors, along with some travelers choosing Europe or Canada over Mexico, contributed to the shortfall. Alarcón said sargassum seaweed on the state’s beaches was not the deciding factor.

She added that while no significant growth was expected compared with last year, the industry had hoped at least to match the previous season’s sales — a goal that also fell short.

In response, member agencies are emphasizing Quintana Roo’s cultural, natural and archaeological attractions and the quality of their service to stand out from the fraudulent offers circulating on social media, Alarcón said.