Sadly on social media, you are reading more about scams in Benidorm, where tourists are basically being fleeced. These are actually more common than the online scams we posted about recently. After flying into Alicante airport last night from Manchester, there were plenty of people who had been drinking plenty on route and all they were talking about as they drank the plane dry, was which bars they were going straight out to that same evening.
In Benidorm, you need to be cautious of several common scams targeting tourists. Watch out for hugger muggers who engage you in conversation while they steal your belongings. Be wary of strangers asking for directions, as they might distract you while pickpocketing. Scammers also use fake petitions or unlicensed drink sales on the beach to exploit unsuspecting visitors. Staying alert can help you avoid becoming a victim. There’s a lot more to know about staying safe here.
Common Scams Targeting Tourists in Benidorm
When you’re exploring Benidorm, you need to watch out for common scams like “hugger muggers.”
These scammers approach you with friendly hugs or conversations, only to steal your belongings while you’re distracted.
Additionally, the lost tourist scam can trick you into helping someone who appears to be in need, putting your valuables at risk.
Hugger Muggers
How can a simple hug turn into a nightmare for unsuspecting tourists in Benidorm? Enter the hugger mugger.
These thieves often pose as fellow tourists, striking up friendly conversations before wrapping you in a seemingly innocent embrace. While you’re caught off guard, they expertly pickpocket your valuables—wallets, phones, and more.
This scam is especially common in crowded bars during football matches, where excitement can distract you just as a goal is scored. The thrill of the game makes it easy to forget about your belongings.
To protect yourself, stay aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings close, and be cautious when approached by strangers. A warm hug could lead to a cold reality if you’re not careful.
Lost Tourist Scam
If you’re enjoying the sights in Benidorm, be wary of the lost tourist scam, where a seemingly friendly stranger might ask you for directions.
While you’re focused on helping them, they could use pickpocketing tricks to steal your belongings. They might unfold a map and distract you, quickly covering your bag or wallet while snatching your valuables.
Alternatively, someone might ask to look up directions on your phone, only to snatch it and run as soon as it’s accessible.
To avoid falling victim, stay alert and keep your belongings secure. If someone approaches you with a request, trust your instincts—it’s better to be cautious than to lose your valuables in the hustle and bustle of this vibrant destination.
The Benidorm Beach ‘Scam’ and Its Consequences
Benidorm’s sunny beaches might seem like the perfect place to unwind, but lurking beneath the surface is a troubling scam involving unlicensed drink vendors.
These sellers peddle cocktails made with questionable ingredients, posing significant health risks for you and other tourists. If you decide to buy from them, be aware that you could face fines of up to €700 (£600) for consuming alcohol on the beach, as it’s against local regulations.
Many tourists remain unaware of these risks, despite signs warning against illegal trading. The preparation methods these vendors use, like cutting fruit on the pavement, raise serious hygiene concerns.
Imagine a scorcher of a hot day, you’re baking on the beach and the allure of an ice cold drink or two comes along…. This is why this is one of the most common scams in Benidorm, where you may not lose anything except your dignity and the money you need to pay for the fine.
With minimal police enforcement, this scam continues to thrive, putting your health and wallet at risk.
How to Avoid Pickpocketing in Crowded Areas
While enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Benidorm, it’s important to stay vigilant against pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the beach or local markets. This is one of the most common scams in Benidorm as well as other tourist hotspots.
Pickpockets often use distractions, such as street games or asking for help, to divert your attention. To protect your belongings, keep valuables like mobile phones and wallets secured in front of you or in hard-to-reach pockets.
Avoid engaging with strangers who approach you in busy places; they might be part of a scam to steal your items. Consider using dummy wallets or older phones when out, as these can deter potential thieves.
If you notice any suspicious activity, report it to local authorities immediately to help safeguard yourself and others.
The Fake Petition Scam: What You Need to Know
As you stroll through the bustling streets of Benidorm, be wary of individuals approaching you with clipboards and persuasive smiles, claiming to seek signatures for charitable causes.
These scammers often use emotional tactics, posing as disabled or in need to gain your sympathy. Unfortunately, their intentions are far from charitable; the money they collect goes straight into their pockets.
Watch out for common pickpocketing tricks, as these fraudsters often work in groups. While one distracts you with the petition, another may quickly swipe your belongings.
To stay safe, avoid engaging with anyone asking for signatures and keep your valuables secure and close to you. Awareness is key to enjoying your time in Benidorm without falling victim to these scams.
Misleading Interactions: Recognizing the Warning Signs
When wandering through busy areas, you might encounter friendly strangers striking up conversations, but it’s essential to stay alert. Scammers often use these interactions to lower your defenses, making you vulnerable to pickpocketing.
Be wary of requests for donations that list minimum amounts; this can signal a scam. Additionally, watch for individuals feigning disabilities, like claiming to be deaf, as they may distract you while an accomplice targets your belongings.
If you notice a crowd forming, it could be a setup designed to create confusion. Always trust your instincts—if a situation feels off, it’s best to walk away. Staying aware of these warning signs can help you avoid becoming a victim.
The Dangers of the Benidorm Pea Men
If you find yourself in Benidorm, be wary of the deceptive allure of the Pea Men.
These street performers engage you in a seemingly simple game, but it’s a well-crafted scam designed to con you out of your money.
While you’re distracted by the game, accomplices may employ pickpocketing tricks to steal your belongings without you noticing.
Tourists often report feeling embarrassed and shocked once they realize they’ve fallen victim.
It’s essential not to stop and watch the Pea Men, as doing so increases your risk of theft.
Unfortunately, legal loopholes often protect these scammers, leaving you vulnerable and the police unable to intervene effectively.
Stay alert and keep your valuables secure to avoid becoming another victim.
ATM Scams: Staying Safe While Accessing Cash
While enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Benidorm, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement, but staying vigilant is key, especially at ATMs.
ATM scams can catch you off guard, so always check for signs of tampering, like loose card slots or keyboards. Be cautious of the Lebanese Loop technique, where scammers glue the cash slot, making you think the machine’s malfunctioning while they pocket your cash.
Stay aware of your surroundings; pickpocketing is common, and distractions may be used to divert your attention. Use ATMs in busy, well-lit areas to reduce risk.
If something feels off, report the suspicious machine to the bank or local authorities to help protect others from falling victim.
Reporting Scams In Benidorm
If you experienced any of these types of crime, say a “mugger hugger” incident (where someone hugs you as a distraction while stealing your belongings) while visiting Benidorm, here’s where you should report it:
- Policía Nacional – This is the main police force that handles crimes against tourists in urban areas like Benidorm. They have stations specifically equipped to deal with foreign visitors.
- The main Policía Nacional station in Benidorm is located at Calle Grecia, 6
- Tourist Police Office (SATE – Servicio de Atención al Turista Extranjero) – Benidorm has dedicated tourist police offices where staff often speak English and are trained to assist tourists.
- During peak tourist season, these offices have extended hours
- Local Police (Policía Local) – For immediate assistance, the local police can also help and will coordinate with national police.
When reporting the crime:
- Bring your passport or identification
- Be prepared to describe what happened in detail
- Note the location and time of the incident
- Describe what was stolen (phones, wallets, jewelry, etc.)
- Mention any identifying features of the thief
If you need to make an insurance claim, you’ll need a police report (called a “denuncia”). The police station will provide you with a copy of this report.
Many hotels in Benidorm can also assist guests with reporting crimes and may even have staff who can accompany you to the police station to help with translation if needed.
It’s important to report these incidents quickly, as “mugger huggers” often target multiple tourists in the same area, and prompt reporting can help police identify patterns and potentially catch the perpetrators.
Fake Tours & Trips
This in Spain is not that usual, but it does sometimes rear its ugly head. You are looking at a wonderful trip to X Y or Z and the average price is 50€ per person through well known companies such as Viator or GetYourGuide, but you see a small poster advertising their trip for 30€ per person, cash only accepted. This is where sadly, you’re paying this 30€ for a worthless ticket, because as you turn up at your nominated ‘ meeting point ‘ you see several other tourists clutching their tickets, but there is no guide, bus, signage or anything to meet you.
Now, I will finish this off by saying if you’re not too drunk, savvy enough to be allowed to travel then most likely you’ll not have anything to worry about. But, if you are off your face, with loads of gold bracelets, necklaces and your expensive watch on show, then you are the ideal target for these types of thieves.
Use common sense and have fun!
