During the Easter holiday season, the Citizen Council for Security and Justice of Mexico City warned about an increase in fraud known as “montaviajes,” where cybercriminals impersonate well-known companies such as Volaris, Booking, Hoteles Riu, and Aeroméxico. According to the organization, the amounts defrauded so far in 2026 range from 5,000 to over 2 million pesos, affecting hundreds of people looking for attractive vacation deals. Holiday Internet Fraud Increases The Citizen Council reported that after analyzing more than 1,600 reports, clear patterns have been identified in this type of scam, which tends to intensify during high seasons like Easter. The executive secretary of the organization, Ramón Beltrán Arellano, warned that criminals take advantage of the urgency and excitement of travelers to offer packages at unrealistically low prices. “Holiday seasons represent a window of opportunity for those seeking to deceive the public by offering fake packages,” he stated. The main channel of deception is the internet, accounting for 58% of cases, while the victim profile shows that 63% are women and 37% are men. Cancún and beach destinations, the most used in scams. Among the most frequently used destinations by criminals are: Cancún (the most frequent), Acapulco, Huatulco, Puerto Vallarta. These locations are promoted with packages that include flights, accommodation, and food at suspiciously low prices. Victims seek help when it's too late. Gabriela González García, General Director of Citizen Attention, pointed out that 9 out of 10 victims turn to the organization after the fraud has already been committed, which shows a lack of prevention. How to avoid falling for “montaviajes”. The Citizen Council issued a series of key recommendations to avoid being a victim: Verify the agency's reputation on the internet and social networks, check references in Profeco and confirm that it is registered with the Ministry of Tourism, avoid advance payments or immediate transfers, be wary of offers “that are too good to be true”, make sure the website is official (https://), keep receipts, emails, and purchase documents. 24/7 support line. In case of doubts or if you have already been a victim, the Citizen Council provides the Security and Trust Line (55 5533 5533), available 24 hours a day, where free legal and psychological advice is offered.
