The warning has been issued to anyone driving a foreign-registered or hire car in Spain.

10:51, Wed, Jul 9, 2025 Updated: 10:52, Wed, Jul 9, 2025

Man driving a car

Brits are warned of 'highway pirates' across Spain (Image: Getty)

British tourists in Spain have been issued a warning over a crime that "no one seems to be talking about". Holidaymakers are being urged to be mindful of "highway pirates" who target foreign-registered and hire cars.

Harry Poulton, a British expat living in Spain, posted a video on social media to warn people against stopping while driving on the highways in Spain. He told his 45,600 followers that thieves often flag down vehicles before robbing valuables. Meanwhile, the Foreign Office has warned of approaches from people claiming to be police in unmarked cars.

Harry Poulton said: "If you’re renting a car, if you’re driving to Spain on the motorways - do not pull over. Not for someone that is on the side of the motorway with their hazards on trying to flag you down.

"There are sign posts in Spain at the moment, all the way from Barcelona up to Valencia up to Alicante. Saying ‘be warned, highway robberies.’

"People are being flagged down, there is normally two people in these cars, one will try and ask for help while the other one distracts you."

He added that the criminals then rob the valuables from your car. He urges people to never pull over on the highway, even if you think you're helping someone out.

Harry continued: "This scam is happening all the time in Spain and in parts of France. But no one seems to be speaking about it. Has anything like this ever happened to you before? This is a warning."

Young female enjoying coastal driving through volcanic landscape of Lanzarote island

Foreign drivers are advised not to stop for people on the highways (Image: Getty)

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The Foreign Office added: "‘Highway pirates’ target foreign-registered and hire cars, 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. Be wary of anyone offering help."

They also said that unmarked police vehicles have a flashing sign on the rear window saying "Policia" or "Guardia Civil". Genuine police officers will never ask you to hand over your bag or wallet, they will only ask for vehicle documents.