The Marbles Game: A new scam spotted in parking lots

August 3, 2025

A new type of fraud has been reported in the parking lots of shopping centers across Mexico City. Scammers disguise themselves as organizers of a marble game offering enticing prizes, but it’s a carefully crafted trap designed to drain money from unsuspecting victims.

The scam begins when individuals approach drivers or passersby and invite them to play a seemingly simple game. Participants are offered two free turns with the chance to win high-value items like smartphones, appliances, or electronics. In these initial rounds, players often score over 50 points, sparking hope and encouraging them to keep playing.

But the deception quickly becomes apparent. Additional turns come at a cost, typically starting at 100 pesos ($5.30) per shot, and the rules grow deliberately confusing. Multiple victims have reported that the game board is rigged: one shot adds points, while the next subtracts them. The board itself is covered with distracting numbers and colors, making it difficult for players to keep track.

Social media users have shared stories of losing up to 20,000 pesos ($1,060), convinced they were just one shot away from a major prize. Authorities have identified the scam operating primarily in the boroughs of Álvaro Obregón and Iztapalapa. There are growing concerns that the scam could spread to other areas.

The fraudsters typically set up mobile tents without permits. In recent days, police arrested 28 suspects and seized more than 200 marbles, rigged game boards, knives, and cash. Authorities are urging the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity.