Question 1

What is the "Express and virtual kidnapping phone/ATM scams" scam in Guanajuato?

Accepted Answer

Two Mexico-wide schemes reach Guanajuato visitors: express kidnapping, where victims are briefly seized and forced to withdraw the maximum from ATMs before release, and virtual kidnapping, where callers (sometimes tipped off by hotel-based accomplices) phone a room or relative claiming a loved one is captive and demand an immediate ransom transfer, though no one is actually held. If you get a 'kidnap' call, hang up and independently confirm the supposed victim is safe before doing anything, and never wire money under pressure. Don't share room numbers or travel plans with strangers, and limit late-night solo ATM withdrawals. Use ATMs in secure indoor locations and vary your routine.

Question 2

What is the "ATM card skimming" scam in Guanajuato?

Accepted Answer

Standalone and street-facing ATMs in the tourist core can be fitted with skimmers and pinhole cameras that clone your card and capture your PIN, leading to later fraudulent withdrawals; Guanajuato has been named among states where card-fraud and counterfeiting networks operate. Machines that 'eat' your card are also a red flag. Use ATMs inside bank branches during business hours rather than freestanding street machines, and cover the keypad as you enter your PIN. Wiggle the card slot for loose attachments and skip any machine that looks tampered with. Set up transaction alerts and check statements during and after your trip.

Question 3

What is the "Counterfeit peso notes in change" scam in Guanajuato?

Accepted Answer

Fake 200, 500 and 1,000 peso notes circulate in Mexico and can be passed to tourists as change by street vendors, taxis, or when breaking large bills, since visitors rarely know the security features. The paper high-value notes are the most commonly faked. Check large notes for the shifting holographic thread and clear watermark, and tilt them to confirm the changing image. Break big bills at banks or established stores rather than with street sellers, and pay small purchases with small denominations. Reject any note that feels wrong or looks faded.

Question 4

What is the "Card 'pay in dollars' (dynamic currency conversion)" scam in Guanajuato?

Accepted Answer

At tourist-facing restaurants, hotels, and shops, the card terminal or bill offers to charge you in US dollars instead of pesos, applying a marked-up exchange rate that adds roughly 5-10% over what your own bank would charge. It's framed as a convenience but quietly inflates the total. Always choose to be charged in Mexican pesos (MXN) and decline the dollar option; you have the right to refuse. Watch the terminal screen and tell staff 'pesos, por favor' before they press confirm. Use a card with no foreign-transaction fee so your bank does the conversion.

Money & ATM Scams in Guanajuato

Express and virtual kidnapping phone/ATM scams

ATM card skimming

Counterfeit peso notes in change

Card 'pay in dollars' (dynamic currency conversion)

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