All Britons heading to Spain issued new safety guidance as tourists could be victims of crime

Britons have been issued new travel advice for Spain, with holidaymakers urged to remain vigilant against street crime.

Updated advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) highlighted a useful resource for tourists: the ALERT COPS mobile app provided by Spanish Police and Civil Guard.

The FCDO explained that this app offers “simple and discreet communication with police forces if you experience or witness a crime”.

It offers several services, including a chat function, location sharing, an SOS button and more. For further information, Britons can visit the ALERT COPS webpage.

The FCDO emphasised the importance of protecting your belongings to deter street crime.

It highlighted the risk of theft, particularly in tourist areas where criminals often employ “distraction techniques” and “work in teams”.

Travellers were advised to take extra care of their passports, money and belongings when visiting the popular holiday destination.

They were told to be especially careful when collecting or checking in luggage at the airport, or while arranging car hire.

The FCDO also advised tourists not to carry all their valuables in one place and to keep a copy of their passport’s photo page somewhere safe.

Taking measures to secure your accommodation is equally important when visiting Spain, with the FCDO stating: “Make sure your accommodation has adequate security. Keep all doors and windows locked.”

Britons who have concerns about their accommodation security should speak to their travel operator or property owner.

For more information on crime risks in Spain, including vehicle crime, attacks and sexual assault, scams, and drink spiking and alcohol, holidaymakers can consult the FCDO’s specific guidance.

Spain is the most popular holiday destination among Britons, famed for its warm climate, delicious cuisine, laidback lifestyle and varied landscapes from mountains to idyllic beaches.

However, before visiting the beloved holiday spot, it’s important to be aware of the FCDO’s latest travel guidance to ensure a safe, well-informed trip.

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This will include the most up-to-date information on warnings and insurance, entry requirements, safety and security, health and getting help.

Britons should also be aware that while Spain remains a top holiday destination, anti-tourist sentiment has become rife in recent months.

Indeed, Spaniards recently told holidaymakers to stay away from Spain, claiming: “You are the source of our problem.”

In a letter penned by seven organisations representing residents, disgruntled locals claimed that overtourism had become unmanageable.