Question 1

What is the "Timeshare Presentation Lure" scam in Puerto Morelos?

Accepted Answer

Friendly promoters approach tourists in Puerto Morelos and on the ferry from Playa del Carmen, offering free excursions, discounted activities, or cash gifts in exchange for attending a 90-minute resort presentation. The presentations last four to six hours, use high-pressure sales tactics, and involve contracts worth tens of thousands of dollars. Victims who sign are often unable to cancel within the legal rescission window. Decline all unsolicited offers of free gifts or discounts that require attending a presentation. If you are interested in a resort stay, book directly through a travel agent. Know that Mexico law gives you five business days to cancel a timeshare contract in writing.

Question 2

What is the "Fake Police Shakedown" scam in Puerto Morelos?

Accepted Answer

Individuals posing as plain-clothes police officers approach tourists in Puerto Morelos and along the Riviera Maya highway, claiming to have seen the tourist commit a minor traffic or drug offense. They threaten arrest and official charges unless a fine is paid immediately in cash. Legitimate Mexican police do not demand on-the-spot cash payments and always carry visible official identification. Never pay cash to anyone claiming to be a police officer on the street. Ask to see official police identification with a badge number and request to go to the nearest police station to resolve any alleged issue formally. Call 911 if you feel threatened. Legitimate police will always have a uniformed partner or marked vehicle nearby.

Other Tourist Scams in Puerto Morelos

Timeshare Presentation Lure

Fake Police Shakedown

Experienced a scam here?