UK tourists warned of scams in popular holiday island
Holidaymakers heading to Majorca this summer have been warned of scams targeting tourists, including illegal drinks sellers and gambling tricks.Criminals try to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists, who often believe the scams are legitimate or get caught up while they are in a different country. But when tourists fall for them they can end up losing money or even impact their health.Local news site Majorca Daily Bulletin, shared a warning published by social media platform Mallorca Insider which highlights some of the most common scams reported in popular tourist areas. A key one to watch out for are illegal cocktail sellers, which operate in and around Playa de Palma.Click here to get the biggest stories straight to your inbox in our Daily NewsletterThis involves vendors preparing drinks in unsanitary conditions, storing them incorrectly and selling them at low prices to unsuspecting tourists which can result in sickness. People are encouraged to buy drinks from authorised establishments only.Another popular scam is the so-called ‘trileros’ street game where criminals use cups and balls to trick participants. Often these games are manipulated so the tourist never winds, resulting in them losing money.Criminals also try to catch people out by pretending to offer flowers or herbs for free. They then ask for money and during that moment of distraction pickpockets target them.In its travel advice for Spain, the UK Foreign Office says: “Be alert to the risk of street crime. Thieves use distraction techniques and often work in teams. Take care of your passports, money and personal belongings, particularly when collecting or checking in luggage at the airport, and while arranging car hire. “The FCDO also warns of a popular scam where police officers may ask to see your wallet, claiming they need to see an ID. Genuine police officers will ask to see ID but will not ask for wallets or purses. All police officers, including those in plain clothes, carry official ID.For more of today's top stories, click here.
