Phone extortion scams in Argentina and Mexico target families of missing women

In Valdense, a teenage girl was deceived by a caller claiming to be a lawyer for her mother. The scammer fabricated a story about a fatal accident and demanded the family hand over cash and jewelry, resulting in losses estimated at €200,000 and precious items. Authorities have opened a fraud investigation.

In Monclova, Mexico, extortionists called the family of 32‑year‑old María Castro after a social‑media post seeking her whereabouts. The caller claimed to have her and demanded a MX$3,000 transfer for her release. Police advised the family not to pay, to cut the call and to block the number, confirming it was a telephone extortion attempt.