The Black Widow scam is still alive and kicking, and took a tech twist

The US Embassy in Argentina has issued a notice to travellers alerting that the Black Widow scam (viuda negra) has become more frequent than usual.

What does it involve? Basically, a foreigner is approached at a public establishment by a young female, leading him to think they will have intercourse. However, she put drugs (benzodiazepinas, clonazepam) in his drinks and once at his apartment, she robs her victim, often with the help of accomplishes which she lets into the victim's apartment. It seems that the scammers have started using dating apps such as Tinder to find new victims, as well.

Besides, the news is full of such reports that target also local men.

After reading the name of the drugs used, I am wondering if our ailing neighbor was targeted by a viuda negra or if his apartment was confiscated pending investigation of a suspected black widow's case. After about two months, the police is no longer in our building and the apartment has been un-confiscated.

Quote from US Embassy

By U.S. Mission Argentina
5 MINUTE READ

August 22, 2024

Location: Buenos Aires/Countrywide

Event: U.S. Embassy Buenos Aires has seen an increase in reports of robberies involving drugs that temporarily incapacitate victims. Victims have been targeted in bars, night clubs, and through dating applications. Avoid leaving food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant, and refuse offers of something to eat or drink from a stranger. Be cautious before inviting individuals back to your hotel or residence.

Actions to Take:

• If you are imminent danger, contact local authorities by dialing “911.”
• Do not leave drinks or food unattended or take drinks from strangers.
• Strongly consider meeting only in public places and avoid meeting or returning to isolated locations, such as residences or hotel rooms, where crimes are more likely to occur.
• 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 them. Victims who are targeted via online dating applications tend to have their electronic devices stolen which often contain all evidence of communication with the assailants.
• Avoid going to bars or nightclubs alone and leaving with strangers.
• Trust your instincts – if something does not feel right, do not hesitate to walk away from a situation.
• Seek medical attention if you believe you may have been drugged.

Assistance:

U.S. Embassy Buenos Aires, Argentina

Phone number: +54 11 5777 4533

Contact us through the ACS Navigator

State Department – Consular Affairs

888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444

Argentina Country Specific Information  

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I agree with Rice . And I am sad to hear that socializing has become so dangerous!

Quote from Bombonera

I think when you’re a foreigner somewhere you are always more vulnerable than a local. But of course what is reported above refers to a local as well.

Of course!

I was in Tunisia on a group visit to the old souk in Hammamet. A local man approached me. As I spoke no French (nor Arabic, obviously), I wasn't quite understanding what he was saying in his broken English. I thought he just wanted me to go to his café to try the shisha (also known as hookah), instead... he wanted to sell me hashish. Ewwww!!!

Do you like shisha? sounded the same as Do you like hashish? or at least I would have never guessed that someone in an Islamic country would offer me to do drugs.

I also didn't like someone could mistake me for a drug user. I was a bit offended that he thought I had the face of a drug addict... or perhaps of a fool! I could have found myself in a far worse situation, though... I am now laughing over it, but I should not.