A Spanish vacation sounds like a dream come true!
After all, who wouldn’t want to be able to say they’ve been to the Prado or dipped their toes into the Mediterranean sea from the Costa del Sol?
Yet, world-class destinations also come with their share of ne’er-do-wells, and Spain is sadly no exception.
Hopefully, you’ll have a lovely, incident-free vacation.
However, no harm from being vigilant.
In this article, we’ll cover the types of shady characters and risky situations you might encounter.
Read on to learn more about how to recognize, avoid, or at least lessen the danger.
Pickpockets
While pickpockets are by no means endemic to Spain, they have no qualms about exploiting unique Spanish attractions that would lighten your wallet.
They operate in Madrid and Barcelona’s crowded metros, not to mention near places like the Sagrada Familia or Puerta Del Sol.
They’ll try to cause or take advantage of your distraction, so staying alert is the best defense.
Always keep an eye on your luggage and keep your wallet in a money belt close to your body.
The flashier you are, the more you’ll stand out, so leave that expensive bracelet or watch at home.
Scams
Spain’s urban centers are also home to various scams tourists keep falling for or stumbling into.
A stranger might spill something on you and then “help” by stealing your wallet.
Or, someone might lay a flower down on your table as you’re taking in the view of Barcelona’s La Rambla and demand payment for it.
During the confusion, they or an accomplice might pocket your phone.
It’s best to read up on the most common scams in Spain so you know what to look out for.
Never leave valuables out in the open, and don’t let yourself be persuaded to go along with the scammers’ tricks.
Muggings
Petty theft and scams make up the vast majority of tourist-related property crime in Spain.
That said, the chances of encountering hooded gentlemen demanding your wallet as the ending to a tinto de verano-fueled night out aren’t exactly zero.
If you do decide to bring valuables, keeping them in your hotel safe or back at your Airbnb will let you return home with them.
It’s also a good idea to keep a second fake wallet.
Put some old cards and a couple of €10 bills in it to sell the illusion and get the thieves off your back.
Public and Cloned Wi-Fi Networks
Snacking on tapas while checking on your vacation fund sounds fun, but it can be dangerous.
Someone might be monitoring the bar’s network or create a copy of it, especially if it’s in a spot that attracts tourists.
They may then see which websites you’re accessing or even install malware that can expose your credentials or personal files.
The potential fallout, including identity theft and financial fraud, definitely doesn’t qualify as fun.
As a defense, you have two options.
You can avoid connecting to Wi-Fi altogether and use an eSIM instead.
If Barcelona is on your itinerary, a Barcelona eSIM can be a convenient way to stay connected without relying on public networks.
They’re easy to set up before you leave for the trip and activate the moment you arrive in Spain.
Local mobile networks are safer than Wi-Fi, and while not free, eSIM plans are cheaper than roaming.
Alternatively, you can activate a VPN and brave the Wi-Fi then.
The VPN will encrypt and secure the connection.
It makes sure no one can monitor your internet activity and will even help you avoid harmful websites if the provider offers threat protection services.
ATMs are prime targets for digital as well as real-world risks.
Credit card skimmers are on the rise in Spain and will copy your CC data in a flash if you’re not observant.
Don’t be embarrassed to give the card slot a good tug – it might end up saving your balance!
Some conventional scams also focus on ATMs.
Strangers might come up to you and offer to help with a withdrawal.
While they’re chatting you up, they might try to get a glimpse of the PIN or pilfer your belongings.
Try to find indoor ATMs where this is much harder, and don’t use ATMs in touristy areas.
