Warning issued to British tourists driving in Spain

‘Highway pirates’ are targeting holidaymakers in Spain. (Image: Getty)

British tourists heading to Spain in the final few weeks of Summer have been warned by the UK government to be careful when driving. The alert applies to both hire vehicles and foreign-registered cars as vehicle crime has increased over the past few years.

The Foreign Office is cautioning Brits to be aware of ‘Highway pirates’ targeting holidaymakers, especially those towing caravans.  “They may flag you down, claiming there is something wrong with your car or that you have damaged theirs. If you decide to stop to check the condition of a vehicle, stop in a public area with lights, such as a service station,” the advice states, adding: “Be wary of anyone offering help.” 

Airports are a popular spot for 'highway pirates' to target holidaymakers hiring cars. (Image: Getty)

The vehicle crime warning for Spain also says to be wary of approaches from people posing as plainclothes police in unmarked cars when driving. “In all traffic-related matters, police officers will usually be in uniform,” the government website says. 

Unmarked police vehicles have a flashing electronic sign on the rear window saying ‘Policía’ or ‘Guardia Civil’. The Foreign Office emphasised that only “genuine police will ask you to show vehicle documents – not to hand over your bag or wallet”.

Car thieves have numerous sophisticated methods for spotting rental vehicles which are often a target for break-ins. 

According to Kazimieras Urbonas, an automotive industry expert at Ovoko, the most common giveaways for hire cars include visible barcodes stuck to windows or windscreens, rental company stickers, and branded keychains left dangling from the ignition.

The Foreign Office also urges travellers to be “alert to the risk of street crime”. Brits should take extra care of passports, money and personal belongings, especially when collecting or checking in luggage at the airport, the advice says. 

“Make sure your accommodation has adequate security. Keep all doors and windows locked. If you’re concerned about the security of your accommodation, speak to your travel operator or the property owner.”

The Spanish Police and Civil Guard have a mobile app which offers a number of services, including communication with police forces if you experience or witness a crime.