The National Police reminds citizens of the importance of adopting prevention measures against scams, thefts and other setbacks that frequently multiply during the summer period and can ruin vacations prepared with enthusiasm and effort in seconds.
With adequate planning and following simple security guidelines, it is possible to avoid economic losses, risky situations or unnecessary inconveniences, both in the digital environment when organizing the trip, as well as in the protection of the home or in the most crowded leisure places.
Before leaving, organize your trip safely
On these dates, scams proliferate on vacation rental or organized travel websites. To avoid falling into fraud:
- Distrust offers with excessively low prices or urgency to book.
- Make payments only through reliable platforms and avoid direct transfers.
- Verify the identity of the lessor, request a contract and keep all documentation.
- Never send images of your ID or share bank details via instant messaging.
Also, make sure that your documentation is in order before traveling:
- The DNI can be renewed up to 180 days before its expiration.
- The Passport, up to one year before.
- Without these documents in force, you may not be able to board, take a train or stay in a hotel.
Prepare your home to look inhabited
During prolonged absences, it is essential that your house does not give the sensation of being empty.
- Do not announce on social networks that you are going on vacation.
- Program lights with timers or turn on a radio or television at key times.
- Ask someone you trust to collect the mail and watch the house, especially with markings on the doors with small plastics or glue threads.
- Close doors and windows with a key and activate alarm or video surveillance systems if you have them.
On the beach, the pool or crowded areas, take care of your belongings
Friends of others take advantage of carelessness and crowds to steal personal items.
- Always carry the bag or backpack closed and in front of the body.
- Never leave your belongings alone while you bathe.
- Do not lose sight of your mobile or your wallet, and keep them in your front pockets.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- Distrust people who approach with unclear excuses or generate distractions.
For any emergency or suspicion of crime, call 091 immediately. You can also use the free AlertCops app, available in several languages and with specific functionalities for travelers.