The warning issued by the State Department to American travelers, advising them not to use dating apps while traveling to Colombia, comes in the wake of multiple “suspicious deaths” of U.S. citizens in the South American country. Colombia has been labeled as a country that Americans should “reconsider travel” to due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping risks.
The advisory, shared on Wednesday, highlighted “eight suspicious deaths of private U.S. citizens” in Medellin, Colombia’s second-largest city, with the deaths believed to be forced overdose or suspected homicides. Several of these deaths are linked to the use of online dating applications, according to the State Department.
The advisory emphasized that criminals use dating apps to lure victims to meet in public places, such as hotels, restaurants, and bars, and then later assault and rob them. The incidents take place in major cities including Medellin, Cartagena, and Bogota. These incidents “routinely go underreported,” the State Department said.
It was also noted that the United States embassy in Colombia had seen increased reports of people being lured by dating apps amid a rise in crimes committed against foreign visitors. In the last trimester of 2023, there was a 200% increase in thefts against foreign visitors and a 29% increase in violent deaths, with most of the victims being U.S. citizens.
In light of these alarming findings, the State Department is advising those who use dating apps in Colombia to only meet in public places, avoid isolated locations, and share details of their plans with a friend or family member.
The advisory serves as a crucial reminder for American travelers to exercise caution and vigilance while using dating apps in Colombia, as the safety and security of individuals should always remain a top priority.