Question 1

What is the "Express Kidnapping and Forced ATM Drain" scam in Mendoza?

Accepted Answer

Short-term opportunistic abductions — known as secuestro express — are flagged for Mendoza by the UK FCDO, Canadian DFAT, and US State Department. Victims are typically held in a vehicle for several hours and forced to withdraw the maximum possible amount from multiple ATMs or make mobile bank transfers before being released. Criminals frequently surveil ATMs and currency exchange offices, following targets who have just made a transaction. The risk is elevated late at night and in areas near downtown cash exchange points. Use ATMs inside banks or enclosed shopping centres during daylight hours only. Vary your routine after cash withdrawals and take a different route back to your accommodation. If confronted, do not resist — comply, and report to police immediately after release.

Question 2

What is the "Drink Spiking and Drug-Facilitated Robbery" scam in Mendoza?

Accepted Answer

Multiple government advisories including the US State Department and FCDO warn of drinks being spiked with sedatives in bars and nightlife venues in Mendoza. Victims are typically approached by a friendly stranger — sometimes posing as a local wanting to show tourists a good time — who offers drinks. After consuming spiked beverages, victims lose consciousness or become disoriented and are robbed of phones, wallets, and passports. Cases have also been reported where people met through dating apps arranged meetings that ended in drugging and robbery. Never accept drinks from strangers you have just met. Do not leave your drink unattended at any point, even briefly. Use a buddy system when going out at night. If you feel suddenly very drunk after only one or two drinks, seek help from bar staff immediately and call a trusted contact.

Other Tourist Scams in Mendoza

Express Kidnapping and Forced ATM Drain

Drink Spiking and Drug-Facilitated Robbery

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