Mexico City security officials warn about fake rent-payment messages. How to spot the scam

Mexico City’s Citizen Security Secretariat is warning residents about a scam built around a familiar fear: an urgent message claiming that unpaid rent has triggered a fine.

The city’s Cyber Police said criminals send SMS messages, emails, WhatsApp messages or communications through other messaging apps. They pose as property managers, landlords or authorities, then demand immediate payment or give recipients less than 24 hours to avoid supposedly higher penalties.

The pressure is designed to push victims into making rapid bank transfers. The authorities said the scheme can also expose victims to identity theft, the theft of banking information, unauthorized charges and digital impersonation.

The SSC advised residents to check with the property administrator to confirm that any debt or fine is genuine. It also urged people not to pay before verifying the information, avoid opening links sent by unknown numbers and remain skeptical of messages that demand immediate payment or threaten sanctions.

Residents can report suspected fraud or other suspicious activity to the Cyber Police at 55 5242 5100, extension 5086, or by email at policia.cibernetica@ssc.cdmx.gob.mx. The agency also encouraged the public to follow its official social media accounts, @SSC_CDMX and @UCS_GCDMX.