(Gray News) - The State Department is warning travelers to avoid using dating apps while in Mexico.

The U.S. Consulate General Guadalajara has confirmed several reports of U.S. citizens being kidnapped by people they met on dating apps while in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, and Nuevo Nayarit, Nayarit.

According to the U.S. Consulate General, some of the victims and their families have been extorted for large amounts of money to secure their release.

For U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico, the U.S. Consulate General said it is important to:

Be cautious if using online dating apps in Mexico

Meet only in public places and avoid isolated locations

Tell a friend or family member of your plans, including where you are going, details of the person you are meeting and the app you used to meet t

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