How Mexican Cartels Are Exploiting Video Games

A digital illustration featuring a man playing a video game seated on a large console, with a soldier standing guard behind him, both set against a smoky, abstract background with "Call of Duty" text.

Popular video games such as Free Fire, Fortnite, and Call of Duty have become an unexpected recruitment platform for Mexican drug cartels. These criminal organizations are targeting children and teenagers, promising them easy money and a lavish lifestyle if they join their ranks.

The recruitment of minors by these criminal groups is a widespread issue across Mexico. The Network for the Rights of Children in Mexico estimates that by the end of 2023, between 145,000 and 250,000 children and teenagers are at risk of being recruited. This is largely because this age group makes up the majority of video game players in the country.

In addition to this, hackers have found a way to infiltrate these video games and social networks. They use these platforms to recruit youngsters, introducing them to the world of cybercrime and online scams.


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