8 Suspicious Deaths in Colombia Prompt Concerns for American Dating App Users
The State Department has cautioned American travelers against using dating apps in Colombia due to multiple reports of “suspicious deaths” involving U.S. citizens. Colombia has been designated as a “reconsider travel” destination for Americans since January 2, citing concerns about widespread violent crimes such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery, along with organized criminal activities like extortion, robbery, and kidnapping in certain areas.
A new threat has emerged recently, with dating apps being a common factor. The U.S. Embassy in Bogota was informed of eight “suspicious deaths” of private U.S. citizens in Medellín between November 1 and December 31, 2023.
These deaths, involving involuntary drugging overdoses or suspected homicides, are not believed to be directly linked but share “distinct circumstances,” with some cases involving the use of online dating apps, along with possible drugging, overdose, and robbery.
Medellín authorities have observed a significant increase in crimes against foreign visitors. Violent deaths of visitors from other countries have risen by 29%, with a majority being U.S. citizens. Criminals in Colombia reportedly use dating apps to lure victims, especially foreigners, to places like hotels, restaurants, and bars with the intention of robbing them.
The advisory warns of instances where U.S. citizens in Colombia have been drugged, robbed, and killed by their Colombian dates, particularly in major cities like Medellín, Cartagena, and Bogotá, which are hotspots for such crimes.
The Risks Beyond Borders and Taking Precautions
Despite regular reporting of such incidents to the U.S. Embassy in Colombia, it is suggested that the scale of the problem may be greater due to underreporting, as victims are often embarrassed and reluctant to pursue legal action.
Key precautions include using online dating apps cautiously, meeting strangers in public places, avoiding isolated locations, informing friends or family about plans, taking extra security measures during meetings, and not physically resisting any robbery attempt, as victims who resist are more likely to be harmed.
This travel advisory follows a worldwide caution alert issued by the State Department for Americans traveling abroad. This alert is in response to increased global tensions and the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.
The alert was prompted by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly the Israel–Hamas war in October, which resulted in heightened tensions globally.
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