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Risk Map & Attractions
Common Scams
The Express Kidnapping Taxi Scam
Criminals, often posing as taxi drivers or working with corrupt drivers, pick up unsuspecting tourists from the street. They then drive the victim to multiple ATMs, forcing them to withdraw the maximum amount of cash from their accounts. This is a high-risk, high-stress situation that can last for hours.
Never hail a taxi on the street. Use official, pre-booked airport taxis (taxis de sitio), radio taxis, or ride-sharing apps like Uber or DiDi. Share your ride details with a trusted contact.
The Fake Police Fine
Individuals dressed as police officers (or sometimes actual corrupt officers) stop tourists, often near rental cars or on foot, and accuse them of a minor, fabricated offense (e.g., jaywalking, minor traffic violation). They demand an immediate 'fine' payment in cash, threatening arrest or confiscation of documents if the tourist refuses.
Politely refuse to pay a fine on the spot. Ask for the officer's badge number and station. Insist on being taken to the nearest police station to pay the fine officially. Never hand over your wallet or passport.
The Distraction Pickpocket
Scammers work in teams to create a sudden distraction—such as spilling a drink, dropping something, or a staged argument—to divert the victim's attention. While the victim is distracted, an accomplice quickly picks their pocket or snatches a bag.
Be highly vigilant in crowded areas. Keep bags zipped and worn across the body. Store wallets in a front pocket. If a stranger approaches you with a sudden, unusual request or distraction, immediately secure your belongings and walk away.
The Rigged ATM Skimmer
ATMs, particularly those in isolated areas, convenience stores, or outside banks, are fitted with 'skimming' devices to steal card data and hidden cameras to record PINs. The stolen information is then used to create cloned cards for fraudulent purchases.
Only use ATMs located inside secure bank lobbies during business hours. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN. Check the card slot for loose or suspicious attachments before inserting your card. Monitor bank statements closely for unauthorized transactions.
The 'Closed Attraction' Taxi Driver
A taxi driver (often an unlicensed one) tells the tourist that their intended destination—a restaurant, museum, or hotel—is closed, overbooked, or 'not good.' The driver then offers to take the tourist to an alternative, more expensive location, often a shop or restaurant that pays the driver a commission, resulting in a much higher fare.
Confirm the operating hours of your destination beforehand. Be firm and insist on being taken to your original location. If the driver refuses, get out of the taxi and find another one (preferably a ride-share or official taxi).
The Fake Alcohol Bar Scam
Bars, especially those catering to tourists, may serve drinks made with watered-down, counterfeit, or illegally produced alcohol. This not only cheats the customer financially but can also pose a serious health risk due to toxic ingredients.
Stick to reputable, well-reviewed establishments. Order bottled beer or wine, or watch the bartender pour your drink. If ordering a mixed drink, ask for a specific, recognizable brand of liquor. If a drink tastes unusually harsh or weak, stop drinking it immediately.
The Airport 'Helper' Scam
At the airport, individuals may approach tourists offering to 'help' with luggage or finding a taxi, often wearing fake badges. They charge exorbitant fees for minimal help or, worse, distract the tourist while an accomplice steals a bag.
Politely but firmly refuse help from anyone not wearing an official, clearly marked uniform of the airport or a pre-booked service. Keep a firm grip on your luggage at all times. Only use official, authorized airport taxi stands.
The Teotihuacan 'Artifact' Scam
At the Teotihuacan archaeological site, vendors sell 'ancient' artifacts, jewelry, and souvenirs, claiming they are genuine or handmade using traditional methods. These items are mass-produced, low-quality fakes sold at inflated prices.
Assume that any artifact sold by a street vendor is a fake. If you want a souvenir, buy from a reputable store or the official museum shop. Do not pay high prices for items that are clearly mass-produced.
The Restaurant Overcharge/Hidden Fee
Restaurants, particularly those with prime views in tourist areas, may add unrequested items (like extra appetizers or bread), charge for things that should be free (like salt on a margarita rim), or simply inflate the bill. They rely on tourists not checking the bill closely or not wanting to argue.
Always check your bill (la cuenta) carefully before paying. Question any unfamiliar charges. Only pay for what you ordered. Be aware that a mandatory service charge (propina) is sometimes included, but tipping is generally voluntary.
The Fake Charity/Sob Story
Scammers, sometimes involving children or people with a convincing story of being robbed or needing money for medicine, approach tourists asking for donations. While some may be genuinely needy, many are professional beggars or part of a scam operation.
Be cautious when approached by strangers asking for money. If you wish to help, donate to a recognized local charity instead of giving cash to individuals on the street. Politely decline and keep walking.
Safe Attractions
Zócalo
Main square of Mexico City.
Frida Kahlo Museum
Historic house and art museum.
Chapultepec Castle
Castle located on top of Chapultepec Hill.
Teotihuacan
Ancient Mesoamerican city with pyramids.
Palacio de Bellas Artes
Prominent cultural center.