During this month of January, the Citizen Council for Security and Justice of CDMX has recorded an alarming 33% increase in cases of loan sharks, a form of digital fraud. This increase, compared to the same period last year, highlights a concerning phenomenon. In fact, 24% of the reports are related to direct threats, 23% to collections from the victim's contacts, and 22% to nonexistent debts.
The report identifies at least 303 fraudulent applications operating on digital platforms, among which recurring names such as Jose Cash, Super Efectivo, and Prestamax can be found. In most cases, the amounts requested do not exceed 10,000 pesos, but victims become trapped in a cycle of debts and extortions that affect their economic and emotional well-being.
Although 45% of cases occur in Mexico City, particularly in municipalities such as Iztapalapa and Gustavo A. Madero, the problem extends to other states like the State of México, Coahuila, Jalisco, Puebla, and Veracruz. In light of this concerning situation, it is necessary to take urgent regulatory measures and conduct prevention campaigns to protect citizens from falling into these criminal networks and to prevent January's financial strain from becoming an opportunity for crime.
Despite this adverse scenario, the arrival of the renowned restaurant and entertainment chain Dave & Buster’s Entertainment to the Mexican market, through a strategic alliance with Winclub México led by Óscar Salgado, marks the beginning of a new phase in the entertainment industry in the country. This expansion not only broadens the leisure offerings in Mexico but also reflects the dynamism and competitiveness of the Mexican market by attracting renowned international brands.
Mexico's relationship with foreign investment is strengthened by attracting more than $31 billion in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) during the first half of 2024, consolidating the country as a key destination for investment in Latin America. The arrival of Dave & Buster’s aims to position itself as a reference in the country by merging dining and entertainment experiences, adapting its offerings to local tastes, and generating opportunities for investors and consumers.
Amid this landscape, it is important to highlight that 60% of loan shark victims are women, and almost half are in the age range of 31 to 45 years. These data underscore the importance of strengthening digital and financial security in the country, as well as promoting measures that protect Mexican families from this growing risk of fraud.
