Puerto Morelos Merchants Warn of Phone Extortion Targeting Small Businesses

Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo — Local merchants in Puerto Morelos have issued a community alert about suspected phone extortion attempts targeting small business owners and vendors in the municipality.

The warning began circulating in social media groups and chat forums where merchants promote food, products, and services. Authorities believe criminals may be using these platforms to gather information about potential targets.

According to testimonies shared in these groups, the individuals first monitor vendors’ posts to identify details about their commercial activities and operating locations.

They then make phone calls from unknown numbers, during which they mention references near the establishments to convince victims they know their exact whereabouts.

In some cases, the alleged extortionists claim to belong to criminal groups and use these assertions as intimidation tactics to demand money.

Merchants have advised business owners to remain vigilant, avoid sharing complete addresses or sensitive information on social media, and report any suspicious calls to authorities.