Holidaymakers in Benidorm have been warned of a significant « problem » that could result in thousands of pounds being drained from their bank accounts.
Lucy, also known as the Benidorm Enthusiast, recently took to the Benidorm Stuff channel on YouTube to outline the most prevalent pickpocketing tricks and scams you might encounter in the Spanish resort town.
She highlighted that pickpocketing is « most definitely a problem in Benidorm », explaining: « A high concentration of people makes for lots of opportunities for pickpockets to do their thing unnoticed. Add alcohol into the mix, which is obviously prevalent in Benidorm, it brings people’s guards down, ups vulnerability, and therefore these dirty pickpockets are in their element. »
Lucy pointed out that the « most common » theft involves mobile phones, and suggested swapping your mobile for an older, cheaper model when venturing out in Benidorm. She also detailed some of the specific scams she’s seen people fall prey to.
One involves an « email sent to the phone owner after it’s been lost or stolen ». She said: « The email says something along the lines of, ‘This phone has been found – click the link and enter your password to locate the phone’. »
Lucy explained the link actually grants the thieves access to the phone and everything on it. « I’ve heard of thousands being wiped out of bank accounts using this scam, » she cautioned.
She revealed the most common method used by thieves to actually get the phones is what she refers to as the « stealth method ». This involves dipping their hands into your pockets in crowded areas such as « markets, shopping streets and bars ».
She also mentioned a distraction technique employed by notorious scammers known as the « Pea Men » in Benidorm. These con artists engage you in a rigged game involving a pea and some cups, while their accomplices scan for valuables and attempt to steal them during the distraction.
Another increasingly popular technique she mentioned is known as the « hugger mugger ». The criminals pose as tourists, strike up a conversation, give you a friendly hug before parting ways, all while pilfering your pockets.
This tactic is particularly prevalent in bars showing football matches, with the thief pretending to be a fan and seizing the opportunity to swipe valuables when a goal is scored.
The « lost tourist scam » is anothe, with con artists approaching unsuspecting individuals with a map in hand, seeking directions. Lucy warned that they’ll lay the map over your possessions and swipe them while you’re looking away.
In a similar vein, a seemingly harmless request from a stranger to look up directions on your phone can turn into a swift theft as they snatch it and dash the moment it’s unlocked.
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