Timeshare terror leaves retired couple $50K in the hole after being scammed

The FBI is issuing a stark warning to timeshare owners about a widespread telemarketing scam linked to a violent Mexican drug cartel. This scheme targets unsuspecting property owners, leading to significant financial losses. Here’s what you need to know and how to protect yourself.

In a recent case involving a retired Canadian couple, Mr. and Mrs. Dimitruk, the scammers promised a Mexican buyer willing to pay above market value for their Florida timeshare. The couple, unaware of the elaborate scam, wired over $3,000 for administrative and processing fees. Over the course of a year, they were asked for additional payments, resulting in a loss of over $50,000. The scammers continued to harass them for more money, despite their substantial losses.

The FBI has linked these timeshare fraud schemes to the Jalisco New Generation drug cartel in Mexico. These scams are part of the cartel’s efforts to diversify their revenue streams and finance criminal activities, including drug trafficking. The cartel targets U.S. timeshare owners in Mexico, particularly older adults who are vulnerable to such scams.

The cartel employs various tactics in executing these scams, including impersonating legitimate entities, targeting vulnerable populations, using call centers, engaging in complex fraud schemes, and resorting to violence and intimidation. They also utilize a network of fraudulent websites and domains to deceive victims.

To protect yourself from falling victim to these scams, it is essential to verify the buyer’s identity and offer legitimacy, research any company that contacts you, be wary of upfront fees, use secure communication channels, consult with professionals before transactions, and report suspicious activity to authorities. Additionally, investing in personal data removal services can help minimize your online presence and make it harder for scammers to target you.

By staying informed, skeptical, and proactive, you can protect yourself from falling victim to timeshare scams linked to organized crime groups like the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Trust your instincts, seek help when needed, and report any suspicious activity to authorities to combat these fraudulent schemes effectively.