June 6, 2025
The U.S. Consulate General in Guadalajara has issued a renewed travel advisory for Mexico, specifically highlighting security concerns in the states of Jalisco and Nayarit. The U.S. State Department has classified Jalisco under Level 3: Reconsider Travel due to crime and kidnapping, while Nayarit remains at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution because of criminal activity.
Officials have also raised concerns about the use of dating apps in Mexico, warning that reports of American citizens being kidnapped have been linked to online platforms. The U.S. Embassy in Mexico confirmed that victims and their families have been extorted for large sums of money following encounters arranged through dating apps.
To mitigate risks, officials urge travelers to take precautions when using online dating services in Mexico. Recommended safety measures include:
- Meeting only in public places and avoiding isolated locations such as private residences or hotel rooms.
- Sharing plans with a trusted friend or family member, including details about the person being met and the app used.
- Trusting instincts—if a situation feels unsafe, individuals should remove themselves immediately.
- Calling 911 in case of emergency.
The advisory serves as a reminder for travelers to remain vigilant and prioritize personal safety while visiting Mexico. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and encourage U.S. citizens to stay informed about travel risks before making plans.
The U.S. State Department assigns colors to its travel advisory levels to visually indicate the degree of risk:
- Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions – Blue (Lowest risk)
- Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution – Yellow (Moderate risk)
- Level 3: Reconsider Travel – Orange (High risk)
- Level 4: Do Not Travel – Red (Severe risk)
These colors help travelers quickly assess the safety level of a destination. If you’re planning a trip, it’s always a good idea to check the latest advisories before traveling.
