Benidorm tourists warned of scams that could drain bank accounts

Brits have been warned of several distraction methods

Holidaymakers heading to Benidorm have been alerted to a significant "problem" that could see thousands of pounds swiped from their bank accounts. The warning comes from Lucy, also known as the Benidorm Enthusiast, who recently took to YouTube's Benidorm Stuff channel to shed light on the most common pickpocketing tricks and scams in the popular Spanish resort town.

She emphasised that pickpocketing is "most definitely a problem in Benidorm", saying: "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 noted that mobile phones are the "most common" items stolen and suggested holidaymakers consider using an older, cheaper model when out and about in Benidorm. She also shared details of specific scams she has seen people fall victim to.

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One such scam 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 warned that clicking the link actually gives the thieves access to the phone and all its contents, reports the Express.

"I've heard of thousands being wiped out of bank accounts using this scam," she cautioned.

She highlighted the most common tactic used by thieves to snatch phones, which she calls the "stealth method". This involves pickpockets slipping their hands into your pockets in busy places like "markets, shopping streets and bars".

She also shed light on a distraction scam known as the "Pea Men" in Benidorm. These tricksters draw you into a sham game with a pea and cups, while their partners in crime look for valuables to steal amidst the commotion.

Another tactic gaining traction is the "hugger mugger", where crooks act like tourists, engage in conversation, embrace you in a parting hug, all while they're lifting items from your pockets. This ploy is especially rife in bars during football matches, with the thief feigning fandom and using the chaos of a goal celebration to pilfer belongings.

The "lost tourist scam" is another one to watch out for, with swindlers asking for help with a map, only to cover and steal your belongings while you're distracted. Similarly, a seemingly innocent request to use your phone for directions can lead to a quick theft as soon as it's unlocked and handed over.