Mexico City, February 25, 2026 – Digital crime continues to put pressure on Mexico City residents. Between January 1 and February 19, 2026, the Cyber Police of the Mexico City Secretariat of Citizen Security (SSC) accumulated 14,145 reports of various cybercrimes, with fraudulent loan applications, known as ‘montadeudas,’ topping the list.
Fraudulent Loan Apps (Montadeudas) Lead the Surge
According to communiqué 546/2026, these platforms, which offer immediate money without credit checks or extensive requirements, accounted for 5,861 reports. This model, based on accessing personal data and employing pressure tactics for collection, remains the primary concern in the digital sphere.
These ‘montadeudas’ schemes exploit users by gaining access to their personal information and then using aggressive and often illegal methods to demand repayment, frequently for amounts far exceeding the original loan.
Social Media and Website Fraud a Close Second
In second place were frauds on social media and fake websites, particularly involving the purchase and sale of high-value goods such as cars and motorcycles. These cases accumulated 4,072 complaints during the period. Victims often lose significant sums of money through these deceptive practices, highlighting the need for caution in online transactions.
Account Hacking and Cyberbullying Also Prevalent
The third most reported crime was the attack, theft, and compromise of personal accounts on instant messaging applications and digital services, including search engines, with 1,918 cases. This includes unauthorized access to accounts, leading to potential identity theft and financial losses.
Following this was cyberbullying, with 1,692 reports on photo and video sharing platforms and messaging services. This form of harassment can have severe psychological impacts on victims, underscoring the importance of reporting such incidents.
Direct Threats and Account Compromises
Direct threats to users and complete account compromises round out the picture, with 602 reports. The widespread use of social media facilitates the commission of these illicit acts, as individuals are more exposed to potential attackers.
Prevention and Reporting: Key to Combating Cybercrime
In response to this scenario, Mexico City authorities have urged residents to strengthen prevention measures and report incidents. Key recommendations include:
- Do not open links or download files from suspicious emails.
- Verify accounts only on official websites.
- Be wary of messages that create a sense of urgency.
- Do not share personal or banking data via links.
- Activate two-step authentication for all accounts.
The SSC reiterated that it maintains permanent monitoring of the digital environment and that complaints can be made through the ‘Mi Policía’ App, on X (formerly Twitter) via @SSC_CDMX and @UCS_GCDMX, by email at [email protected], or by calling 55 5242 5100, extension 5086.
This surge in cybercrime highlights the evolving challenges faced by law enforcement in the digital age and the critical need for public awareness and vigilance to protect against these growing threats.
