Question 1

What is the "Scopolamine via Dating Apps" scam in Medellín?

Accepted Answer

Tourists using dating apps in Medellín have reported matches arranging meetings at apartments or bars where drinks or cigarettes are laced with scopolamine (burundanga). Victims wake up having transferred money or handed over valuables willingly. Meet dates in public spaces and arrive/leave independently. Do not accept drinks poured out of your sight. Share your location with a friend before any date. Use established venues recommended by your hostel, not locations suggested by online matches.

Question 2

What is the "Fake Tinder/App Date Robbery" scam in Medellín?

Accepted Answer

Tourists are lured via dating apps to private apartments or unfamiliar locations where they are robbed, sometimes violently. The perpetrators may be working as a group. Meet app dates for the first time only in busy, well-lit public places. Share your location and plans with a trusted contact. Avoid visiting strangers' homes until you know them well.

Question 3

What is the "Tire Puncture Road Robbery" scam in Medellín?

Accepted Answer

Criminals deliberately puncture vehicle tires — including rideshare cars and tourist rental vehicles — and then follow the driver until they pull over to inspect the flat. Once the driver or passengers exit or roll down windows, the criminals rob them of phones, bags, and valuables. The Australian government's Smartraveller advisory and multiple travel guides to Colombia specifically name this tactic. It is reported on routes between Medellín and the airport (Autopista Norte) and on roads around popular day-trip destinations in Antioquia. If you suspect a flat tyre, do not stop immediately in an isolated area. Drive slowly to a well-lit petrol station, police checkpoint, or populated area before stopping. Keep windows up and doors locked while moving. If approached aggressively when stopped, do not exit the vehicle and use your phone to call 123 (Colombian emergency line) or the rental company.

Other Tourist Scams in Medellín

Scopolamine via Dating Apps

Fake Tinder/App Date Robbery

Tire Puncture Road Robbery

Experienced a scam here?