Two alleged “narco-banners” reportedly warning Americans to avoid Mexico’s Los Cabos region have circulated online, though local authorities say no physical evidence of the signs exists.

The messages were purportedly from La Chapiza, a faction of the Sinaloa Cartel.

Experts note that whether real or not, the tactic aligns with decades of cartel intimidation—known as narcomantas—used to threaten rivals, claim territory, or intimidate civilians.

Joe Peters, a former White House drug czar official, emphasized that even if unverified, such threats should be taken seriously because cartels use fear and violence to exert control.

He warned that the proximity to the U.S. and the large number of American tourists makes people potential targets for extortion, kidnapping, or other attacks, Fox News has reported.

Peters advised Americans to exercise caution and avoid traveling to areas without a strong safety record.