FBI Warns New Yorkers Of Spring Break Travel Dangers

LONG ISLAND, NY — The first day of Spring is Thursday, and the FBI on Monday warned New York families and student spring breakers to take precautions while traveling abroad.

Several popular destinations for residents are under travel alerts, especially in Mexico, amid spikes in kidnappings and crime targeting tourists. The FBI is urging travelers to review and take U.S. Department of State travel advisories seriously.

Currently, the state department is urging Americans not to travel to Mazatlan, Mexicali Valley, Acapulco and six Mexican states including Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas Zacatecas state due to crime and kidnappings. The State Department is also urging people to reconsider travel plans to Baja California, Rosarito, Tijuana, and Ensenada.

Similarly, the State Department is urging residents to reconsider travel to destinations such as Jamaica and to avoid certain areas of that island altogether due to crime. Travelers in Costa Rica and Cuba are advised to use increase caution due to crime, according to the State Department.

“Whether it’s families looking to escape the final throes of winter or a college student seeking a brief respite from the rigors of academic life, know that the risks are there,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge, Akil Davis. “Maintain vigilance throughout your travels and be prepared to contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate should the need arise.”

Additionally, travelers should take the following precautions, according to the FBI:

• Establish points of contact for your family to reference in the event of an emergency.
• Avoid traveling alone, especially after dark. Be conscious of your surroundings and avoid areas you believe may put your personal safety at risk.
• Use only authorized taxis/shuttles. Passengers have been robbed or kidnapped when using taxis.
• Avoid actions that are illegal, improper, or indiscreet. Avoid offers of sexual companionship; they may lead to a room raid, photography, and blackmail.
• Evade criminals by being aware of your surroundings and alert to the possibility of surveillance. Take mental notes of anyone following you and promptly report it to the appropriate security officials.
• Beware of new acquaintances who probe for information about you or who attempt to get you involved in what could become a compromising situation.
• Finally, if you see or hear suspicious activity when traveling, contact your local FBI or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov. Your identity can remain anonymous when submitting a tip to the FBI.