Tinder tells users in Colombia to be careful

Following a string of attacks on expats who used dating apps in some of Colombia’s largest cities, Tinder warned singles in the South American country this week to be wary of whom they swipe right on.

At least eight US citizens in Medellín, Colombia, died in November and December either from suspected overdoses or homicides, often after meeting up with local women from dating apps, according to the US Embassy. Dozens of other male tourists met up with Tinder or Bumble matches and reportedly woke up hours later to find that their bank accounts had been emptied and their devices stolen. Sometimes, they’ve been beaten up.

What’s going on? Local catfishers/thieves are slipping Americans and other foreigners a sedative known as “devil’s breath.” The drug is odorless and makes people suggestible enough to hand over personal belongings, passwords, and other sensitive info before it knocks them out.

More visitors, more snatchings. Drawn by a vibrant nightlife and a digital nomad visa program, remote workers and tourists have mobbed Medellín—and thieves consider robbing them to be like a tax on wealthy gentrifiers, local officials say. Thefts against foreigners in the city have tripled in a little over a year.