A United Front Against Vacation Ownership Fraud

Vacation ownership is built on long-term trust. Families return year after year to places they love, creating lasting memories. But in recent years, that trust has been threatened by organized fraud targeting U.S. vacation ownership members who have purchased memberships in Mexico.

The recent actions taken by the U.S. Department of the Treasury against individuals and companies linked to criminal networks behind vacation ownership scams mark a major step forward. These schemes, often tied to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), have affected thousands of American families through tactics like fake resale offers and fraudulent exit programs.

These crimes not only cause damage to U.S. consumers, but also hurt the reputation of the formal industry of vacation ownership that creates jobs, promotes tourism, and brings value to communities across Mexico.

Standing Together Against Fraud

AMDETUR, the Mexican Association of Tourism Developers, represents over 90% of the vacation ownership developers and investors in Mexico. We know how important it is to keep trust at the center of everything we do.

That’s why we’re working closely with developers, legal experts, cybersecurity firms, and authorities to protect members and keep the industry safe. We welcome the cooperation between the U.S. Treasury, the FBI, Mexico’s Financial Intelligence Unit, and industry partners like ARDA. It’s a shared problem, and it needs a shared solution.

At AMDETUR, we are building tools and strategies to help members detect and prevent fraud. We’re also raising awareness so members know how to identify red flags and report suspicious activity.

Simple Steps to Stay Protected

To help vacation ownership members avoid falling victim to fraud, AMDETUR encourages the following precautions:

• Always contact your vacation club or resort directly using official communication channels before responding to any third-party request related to your membership or property.
• Ignore any emails, messages, or phone calls that ask for payments or fees not specified in your original contract. Vacation clubs will never request additional money outside the terms you already agreed to.
• Do not engage with offers, websites, apps, or social media pages that are not officially endorsed or managed by your vacation club. If in doubt, check with your developer or resort.
• If you suspect you have been contacted by a fraudulent company, contact your local FBI office immediately for support and action.

These small steps can make a big difference in avoiding serious financial and emotional harm.

A Global Issue That Needs Global Solutions

This isn’t just a Mexico issue—it’s happening around the world. Criminal networks operate across borders, and so should our response. We agree with ARDA: vacation ownership fraud is a global challenge that demands collaboration across governments, associations, and companies.

When we work together, we can build stronger protections, share best practices, and make sure that innovation and safety, through digitalization and cybersecurity strategies, grow hand in hand. Industry associations play a key role by helping developers and service providers stay informed and supported.

A Safer Future Starts Now

The recent sanctions are an important step, but there’s more work to be done. Everyone involved, developers, members, suppliers, and regulators, has a role in keeping this industry strong, transparent, and secure.

Let’s make sure that vacation ownership continues to be what it was meant to be: a safe, joyful, and reliable way for families to travel. By staying alert, informed, and united, we can protect what matters most while we all keep us safe.