Urgent warning issued to Brits heading to Tenerife amid terrifying scam (original) (raw)

British tourists visiting Tenerife have been warned of a grim scam that could leave them without their mobile phones. Millions of Brits visit the island every year

Brits have been warned about Tenerife scammers

Brits have been warned of a major scam targeted at tourists in a popular holiday spot.

The Spanish island of Tenerife is hugely popular with Brits, with over 2.2 million visiting in 2022 alone according to data from Statista. One man has warned his fellow visitors to the island, however, after unsuspecting tourists were scammed by opportunistic criminals. TikTok user @seb_tenerife said scammers have been known to ask tourists for directions and to use their mobile phones, only to make a run for it once the device has been unlocked. Seb, who now lives in Tenerife, said there is also a problem with pickpockets on the island, the Express reported.

"I would just again be very careful," he warned. "Benidorm is a lot like Tenerife - both great holiday destinations, great weather, booze is flying, everyone's here for a good time, very similar sorts of destinations… But obviously, like anywhere where holiday places are… You've just got to be wary." The plush resort of Playa de las Américas is situated on Tenerife’s southwest coast and is particularly popular with tourists. It is known for beaches, surfing and fun nightlife, but Seb also said it is where pickpocketers lurk.

Scammers have targeted mobile phones (

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In a video that has gained over 15,000 views on TikTok, Seb explained that many of these incidents happen “due to alcohol”, meaning drunken individuals having a good time are less minded to keep an eye on their surroundings. He said: "Las Americas does seem to be the spot where it's all happening, especially down Veronica's… So aye, just be careful, watch your belongings, and you'll be absolutely sound."

The CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, an insurance comparison site, told Birmingham Live that tourists could be targeted at major tourist hotspots around the world. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said UK residents took 86.2 million trips abroad in 2023. "Iconic attractions like the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Trevi Fountain in Rome are particularly popular with pickpockets as they can move more inconspicuously amongst larger crowds," Greg Wilson said.

"Many holidaymakers are unaware that some of the most popular destinations for Brits have some of the highest incidents of pickpocketing in Europe." He added: "It is essential always to remain vigilant, leave valuables, like expensive jewellery, in a safe in the hotel and always travel with a secure cross-body bag with zips to secure phones and wallets or even a money belt."