Mexico authorities identify man accused of dating app romance scams

Authorities in the State of Mexico have identified Alfonso N. as the individual behind a series of romance scams conducted through dating applications such as Bumble and Tinder. The suspect allegedly used various aliases, including Baruc, Ezra, Luca, and Lazlo, to target women by building emotional connections and exploiting their empathy.

One victim, Paulina Montesinos, reported losing approximately 170,000 pesos after the suspect claimed to be an Italian art appraiser facing economic crises. The scam involved requests for cash and electronic devices, leading the victim to exhaust her savings and sell her vehicle. In another instance, the suspect reportedly faked a kidnapping to explain his sudden disappearance.

Investigations suggest that Alfonso N. may have defrauded at least 15 women over a ten-year period, with individual losses ranging from 60,000 to 500,000 pesos. Legal proceedings are currently underway following the identification of the suspect by the State of Mexico Prosecutor's Office.