The U.S. Embassy in Colombia is cautioning Americans against using dating apps while in the country, citing eight “suspicious deaths” authorities believe may be tied to the sites.

“The deaths appear to involve either involuntary drugging overdose or are suspected homicides,” the embassy said in a statement. 

“Criminals use dating apps to lure victims to meet in public places such as hotels, restaurants, and bars, and then later assault and rob them,” the embassy continued. “Numerous U.S. citizens in Colombia have been drugged, robbed, and even killed by their Colombian dates.”

The number of thefts committed against foreign visitors in Colombia rose by 200 percent in the last four months of 2023, the embassy said.

Americans are at the highest risk in major cities, including Medellin, Cartagena and Bogota.

The embassy requested Americans “be vigilant, maintain heightened situational awareness, and incorporate strong personal security practices” while in the country.